Puyol's statement:“Good afternoon. The motive for this press conference is to inform you that I will cease to be a FC Barcelona player at the end of the current season. The club knows of my decision and is in agreement in how we should end our professional relationship, my contract and the two years left to run on it, will be rescinded.

After the last two operations I went through, I have struggled to return to the level I demand of myself to continue here at this club. I have struggled more than I had expected and a lot more than what the surgeons predicted. That is the reason why I have made this decision.

I would like to make three, important points: Firstly, this does not mean that I will be leaving as of today, there are still three months of the season left to play and those who know me will understand that I will not be sitting back and relaxing during that time, but fighting right until the end to help the team reach its objectives.

I don’t know what I will do after 30 June but after so many injury problems and operations, I am tired and I really need to rest. I have spent four years trying to recover from injuries.

Finally, if I decide to give another press conference at the end of the season to formally bid farewell to all of the people who have accompanied me during these 19 years – presidents, directors, coaches, team mates, club employees, journalists, friends and family... On that day, I will happily answer all of your questions. Thank you very much and see you soon."
Gerard Piqué posts message in tribute to Carles Puyol:"The day has come. You're going, it might be the way of life, but it is impossible to imagine a Barça without you.

"When I look back and remember Paris or Rome, the first image that come to my mind is you lifting the European Cup. At Wembley, you gave the honour to Eric Abidal, a gesture that makes you even greater.

"My generation and those that come after us don't know a Barça without Puyol in the back four, with the armband and the No.5 on the back. I guess nothing will be the same.

"I met you almost six years ago. You were the captain and the symbol of the team and I was a youngster eager to conquer the world.

"From the first day we had a great relationship, both on and off the pitch. At your side, I felt protected, I knew that if I failed one day, you would be there to save me. You are my guardian angel.

"I want you to know that I will miss our chats in the dressing-room, your advice and, above all, your scolding on the pitch.

"You are unique and one of a kind. I have to laugh when they talk about signing the new Puyol - they can keep on looking, because they never will find him."

"Thank you, Puyi."