An ex-Barcelona teammate of Lionel Messi has opened up on his experience of MLS for the LA Galaxy ahead of the legendary forward's move stateside.
The Argentinian icon will, of course, turn out for Inter Miami in the coming weeks and months after deciding to join the fledgling franchise following the expiry of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain. Although the 36-year-old is well-acquainted with the coastal city - already owning a property there - life in MLS may come as a culture shock after nearly two decades in Europe.
After leaving the continent he has called home since the age of 13, when he joined Barcelona's famous La Masia academy from boyhood club Newell's Old Boys, he is set to play for a club in the Americas for the first time as a professional. And former Blaugrana teammate Riqui Puig has predicted that the superstar winger will not have things all his own way after moving to MLS.
The 23-year-old departed Camp Nou last year and moved to the US to play for the LA Galaxy and so has a unique perspective on the contrast between the two environments.
Speaking to Spanish outlet AS, the former Spain U-21s starlet explained that the most difficult adaptation has been the travel involved, with games often taking place across different time zones in America. He stated: "The thing I dislike is the trips and the time changes. I think that for a player sometimes resting well is very difficult, that's one of the things that have been difficult for me to adapt to."
"What I liked the most is that there is a high level in this league because all the teams can beat anyone and it is a league where there is a lot of competition.
"I think it is a league with a great future. Now that Leo [Messi] and [Sergio] Busquets have arrived... I think they can give a lot to this league and the league can give them a lot."
Puig, who is set to represent the MLS All-Stars this year versus Arsenal, did add that he has already spoken with Busquets in regards to his upcoming transfer to DRV PNK Stadium. He also explained that he feels the prospect of Messi and fellow former Barcelona icon Sergio Busquets moving to MLS could prove mutually beneficial.
"I think it's a spectacular place to learn, or to finish the great careers that they have. I'm very happy for them. I have been able to speak with Busi [Sergio Busquets] and he is very happy."
