‘Reminds me a lot of him’… Sergi Dominguez’s former coach compares him to iconic Barcelona legend | OneFootball

FC Barcelona got another good win as they beat the Serbian side Red Star Belgrade with a 5-2 scoreline in their last UEFA Champions League encounter. However, this win can prove to be somewhat costly, especially for the defender Pau Cubarsi, as he suffered from a painful blow to his face, that required him to get some stitches.

Following this setback, it remains uncertain whether Cubarsi will be fit to start the upcoming match against Real Sociedad. With other key defenders also sidelined, this situation could present an opportunity for the young Sergi Dominguez.

Having already made five appearances this season and impressed in his cameo against Villarreal, Dominguez could be in line for his third start with Barcelona.

In order to get an idea of how good this young defender is, SPORT contacted one of his former coaches, Iban Cuadrado. The former Juvenil B coach compared the youngster to one of his former teammates in the academy who went on to become a club legend, Carles Puyol, for his defensive qualities:

“A player with great potential who hasn’t had anything handed to him, who has struggled but keeps his head in the right place, and has excellent defensive qualities that remind me of Puyi.”

“Nobody expected Puyi to succeed either; others seemed destined to make it, but he knew how to seize his moment through character and a great capacity for improvement. In that way, Sergi Domínguez reminds me a lot of him.”

The former coach was clear that Dominguez could succeed at the Catalan club despite having some difficulties in his development:

“Sergi Domínguez can succeed at Barça because he’s a player who will never let you down… Sergi has had a tough time; he’s dealt with injuries and has had to work very hard, but he has a fantastic character. He’s always attentive, eager to learn, and is one of those underrated players who can surprise you if given the chance.”

Highlighting some of the best qualities of the young Barcelona defender, Cuadrado commented:

“Sergi is a great marker; he wins duels, is fast, powerful, always focused, and dominates the aerial game. In all those aspects, he also has qualities reminiscent of Puyol, and like him, he’s working to improve his ball-playing skills—and he’s achieving it. If he’s there, it’s no accident.”

“Sergi is a great defender, a very well-rounded marker—tenacious, quick, solid, reliable, and with a strong temperament. I see a Puyol-like style in him. I’m not afraid to say it because he’s a very humble and hard-working guy.”

With these words from his former coach, it will be interesting to see how Dominguez performs if he actually gets the chance to play against Real Sociedad. Hopefully, he will take full advantage of this situation, and go on to become another breakout star from La Masia, just like Carles Puyol.