It has been just a few short weeks since Barcelona captain Carles Puyol emerged from the Stadio Olimpico in Rome holding the Champions League trophy aloft.
But the central defender is already making plans for defending the crown, and admits it would be satisfying to retain their title, of all places, in the Santiago Bernabeu – home of rivals Real Madrid.
Speaking to Don Balon, the 31-year old said of the prospect of winning the ultimate prize in European football at the home of his biggest rivals, “It would be nice to win the title at the Bernabeu. It makes it a bit more curious, but playing in a Champions League final is unique.
“We have to prepare for next season. Our team is likely to be the same, and we must not forget that this squad has won everything.”
Puyol also spoke of the potential impact of Real Madrid’s glittering array of new signings, but claimed that the Blaugrana have nothing to fear from the capital club’s reinforcements.
He stated, “We must show them great respect, but we have no fear. I am very comfortable and happy with the squad we have at Barcelona.
“The fact that these players are signing [with Real Madrid] should only serve as a motivation for us.”
