Brief Introduction of Riqui Puig
Ricard “Riqui” Puig Martí is a Spanish professional footballer renowned for his role as a central midfielder for the Major League Soccer (MLS) club, LA Galaxy. A product of FC Barcelona’s esteemed La Masia academy, Puig is celebrated for his exceptional technical skills, vision, and precise passing, which have led to comparisons with legendary midfielders like Andrés Iniesta. His career began to garner significant attention during his time with Barcelona’s first team, and he has since become a key player in the MLS, showcasing his creative and dynamic style of play. His journey from a promising young talent in Spain to a celebrated star in the United States has made him a noteworthy figure in the world of professional football.
Riqui Puig Overview
| Full Name | Ricard Puig Martí |
| Date of Birth | August 13, 1999 |
| Age | 26 |
| Birthplace | Matadepera, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain |
| Nationality | Spanish |
| Profession | Professional Footballer |
| Famous For | Playing as a central midfielder for LA Galaxy and his time at FC Barcelona |
| Education | Information not disclosed |
| Marital Status | In a relationship |
| Spouse / Partner | Gemma Iglesias |
| Children | None |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be around $12 million |
Early Life and Education of Riqui Puig
Ricard “Riqui” Puig Martí was born on August 13, 1999, in Matadepera, a municipality in the province of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. Football was a significant part of his life from a very young age, largely due to the influence of his father, Carlos Puig, who was also a professional footballer. Carlos spent his entire career as a left-back for Terrassa FC, instilling a passion for the sport in his son. Puig began his own football journey at UFB Jàbac Terrassa. In 2013, at the age of 14, his talent was recognized by one of the world’s most prestigious football academies, and he joined FC Barcelona’s La Masia. It was here that he honed his skills and developed the signature playing style that would define his professional career. Information regarding his formal education outside of his football training has not been publicly disclosed.
Riqui Puig Career
Early Career
Riqui Puig’s professional journey began within the structured environment of FC Barcelona’s youth system. After joining La Masia in 2013, he steadily progressed through the various age groups, showcasing his immense potential. He made his senior debut with the reserve team, Barcelona B, on February 24, 2018, in a Segunda División match against Gimnàstic de Tarragona. His performances for the B team were impressive, and he soon became a key player, known for his creativity and control in midfield. During the 2017-18 season, Puig was also a vital member of the Barcelona U19 team that won the UEFA Youth League, defeating Chelsea in the final. This early success at the youth level set the stage for his eventual transition to the senior team.
Breakthrough
Puig’s breakthrough into the senior team at FC Barcelona occurred on December 5, 2018, during a Copa del Rey match against Cultural Leonesa. Coming on as a substitute, he made an immediate impact by providing an assist for Denis Suárez’s goal in a 4-1 victory. This impressive debut generated significant excitement among fans and pundits, who saw him as the heir to Barcelona’s midfield legacy. His La Liga debut followed on April 13, 2019, in a match against Huesca. Although his opportunities with the first team were initially limited, he was officially promoted to the senior squad for the 2020-21 season, being handed the number 12 jersey. A particularly memorable moment from this period was when he scored the winning penalty in a shootout against Real Sociedad in the Supercopa de España semi-final in January 2021.
Major Achievements and Success
Despite not being a regular starter at Barcelona, Riqui Puig was part of a squad that achieved significant success. He was a member of the team that won the La Liga title in the 2018-19 season and the Copa del Rey in 2020-21. However, his move to the LA Galaxy in August 2022 marked a new chapter where he could truly shine as a central figure. He quickly established himself as one of the most exciting and effective players in Major League Soccer. His individual brilliance has been recognized with selections to the MLS All-Star team in 2023 and 2024, as well as being named to the MLS Best XI in 2024. His contributions were instrumental in leading the LA Galaxy to win the MLS Cup in 2024.
Recent Work / Current Status
Riqui Puig continues to be a pivotal player for the LA Galaxy. In May 2024, he signed a contract extension that will keep him with the club until the end of the 2027 season, demonstrating his commitment and the club’s faith in his abilities. His influence on the team’s performance remains substantial. Unfortunately, his 2025 season was cut short due to a knee injury that required surgery. He underwent a second procedure in January 2026 and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season while he recovers and undergoes rehabilitation. Despite this setback, he remains an integral part of the LA Galaxy’s long-term plans.
Riqui Puig Awards and Achievements
- La Liga: 2018–19
- Copa del Rey: 2020–21
- MLS Cup: 2024
- UEFA Youth League: 2017–18
- MLS Best XI: 2024
- MLS All-Star: 2023, 2024
Riqui Puig Personal Life & Family
Riqui Puig’s personal life remains relatively private, though some details are known. He is the son of Carlos Puig, a former professional footballer. This familial connection to the sport undoubtedly played a role in his own career path. He has an older brother who is reportedly skilled in water sports. In his personal time, Puig is known to enjoy playing video games, with FIFA being a particular favorite. He has also shown an interest in business, having participated in a $20 million investment fund for an upcoming football video game called “Goals” in April 2023.
Riqui Puig Relationship Details
Riqui Puig is in a relationship with Gemma Iglesias. The couple reportedly began dating in early 2022 and made their relationship public in May of that year. Gemma Iglesias is known to be a travel enthusiast and is active on social media. They often share pictures of their travels and time together on their respective Instagram accounts. As of now, the couple has no children.
Riqui Puig Net Worth and Income
Riqui Puig’s net worth is estimated to be around $12 million. A significant portion of his wealth comes from his salary as a professional footballer. As a Designated Player for the LA Galaxy, he is one of the highest earners in the MLS. His contract with the club, which runs through 2027, sees him earning a substantial annual salary. Reports indicate his annual earnings are in the millions, making him the highest-paid player on the LA Galaxy roster. His income is supplemented by endorsements and other business ventures, such as his investment in the video game “Goals”.
Riqui Puig Physical Appearance
- Height: 1.69 m (5 ft 7 in)
- Weight: 56 kg (123 lbs)
- Eye Color: Information not publicly available
- Hair Color: Brown
Riqui Puig Controversies
No major controversies have been reported involving Riqui Puig. He has maintained a professional and focused image throughout his career, both on and off the pitch. There were some discussions and debates among fans and media regarding his lack of playing time at FC Barcelona under certain managers, but this did not escalate into any significant controversy involving Puig himself.
Riqui Puig Social Media Presence
- Instagram – @riquipuig
- Twitter – @RiquiPuig
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Interesting Facts about Riqui Puig
- His father, Carlos Puig, was also a professional footballer who played as a left-back for Terrassa FC.
- He won the UEFA Youth League with Barcelona’s U19 team in the 2017-18 season.
- Puig has drawn comparisons to Spanish football legend Andrés Iniesta due to his playing style.
- He holds the MLS record for the most assists in a single game, a feat he shares with Landon Donovan and David Beckham.
- Outside of football, he is an investor and participated in a funding round for a new football video game.
Riqui Puig Legacy and Influence
Riqui Puig’s legacy is still being written, but he has already made a significant impact on the sport, particularly in the context of player development and career choices. As a standout graduate of La Masia, he represents the technical and possession-based style of football that Barcelona is famous for. His decision to move to the MLS at a young age was seen by many as a bold and unconventional career move, challenging the traditional career paths of top European talents. In the MLS, he has become a marquee player, elevating the profile of the league and demonstrating that it can be a destination for young, high-quality players in their prime. His creative and exciting style of play has won him many fans and has had a positive influence on the quality of football in the league.
Final Words about Riqui Puig
Riqui Puig’s journey is a compelling story of a gifted footballer who has navigated the highs and lows of a professional career with grace and determination. From the hallowed grounds of La Masia to the vibrant stadiums of the MLS, he has remained true to his unique style of play. While his time at Barcelona may not have reached the heights many had hoped for, his move to the LA Galaxy has provided him with the platform to showcase his exceptional talent on a consistent basis. He has not only achieved individual accolades but has also led his team to championship glory. As he works his way back from injury, the football world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the career of this dynamic and influential midfielder.