The Nick Standlea Podcast

Inside FC Barcelona's La Masia Academy with Albert Puig: How Messi, Xavi, and Yamal were developed


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🚨 Albert Puig, the former director of La Masia—Barcelona’s world-renowned youth academy—and Bernat Franquesa, his co-founder at APFC Courses, join The Nick Standlea Show to share their insights on soccer development, life lessons, and teaching creativity.

 

🔑 Key Takeaways:

  • How La Masia became the "Silicon Valley of Soccer"
  • Why the best players focus on mindset over athleticism
  • The vital role of competition in self-growth
  • How to teach creativity and vision to young athletes
  • The importance of passion, hard work, and resilience in sports and life
  • 🌟 Learn from the coaches who helped develop stars like Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, and Gerard Piqué.

     

    📖 Want to take your coaching to the next level? Check out APFC Courses at APFCourses.com to learn the Barcelona methodology straight from the experts.

     

    For training straight from the experts in San Diego, California, check out APFCTraining.com

     

    🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into personal growth and high performance on  The Nick Standlea Show

     

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    Ask questions, 

    Don't accept the status quo, 
    And be curious.

    Timestamps: 

    0:00 – Introduction
    Nick introduces Albert Puig, former director of La Masia, and Bernat Franquesa, co-founder of APFC Courses.

    0:49 – What Makes La Masia Special?

    Albert shares insights on why La Masia is considered the "Silicon Valley of soccer."

    2:27 – Pressure at the Top: Life at La Masia

    Albert reflects on the challenges of working in one of the most prestigious soccer academies.

    6:12 – Budget vs. Value: La Masia’s Economic Impact

    The surprising revenue La Masia’s players generate for FC Barcelona.

    9:01 – Winning vs. Development

    Why the focus at La Masia is on long-term growth over short-term victories.

    12:07 – Competition: A Battle With Yourself

    Albert and Bernat discuss how soccer teaches life’s most important lesson: competing with yourself.

    17:18 – Do You Want the Ball? Lessons for Life

    How wanting to dominate the ball translates to ambition in life.

    20:52 – The Train Moment: Deciding to Seize Opportunities

    Bernat shares stories of players who made—or missed—their moments.

    28:45 – Hunger vs. Comfort: Cultural Differences in Development

    The contrast between player development in Spain and the U.S.

    30:39 – Speed of Mind vs. Speed of Body

    Albert explains why decision-making is the most important skill in soccer.

    35:04 – Teaching Vision and Creativity

    How to develop players who can see the game before it happens.

    42:00 – Parents: Step Back and Let Players Learn

    Why over-involvement from parents can hinder a player’s growth.

    47:15 – Balancing Passion and Intensity

    What makes a great coach? Passion, love, and intensity.

    54:00 – Preparation for Life: Lessons Beyond Soccer

    Using soccer as a tool to teach life’s greatest lessons.

    58:08 – Lamine Yamal: A Special Talent

    Albert reflects on spotting talent like Lamine Yamal and what sets him apart.

    1:00:29 – Advice for Coaches

    Albert and Bernat’s final words of wisdom for coaches: focus on development, not results.

    1:01:18 – Closing Remarks

    Nick wraps up with gratitude and a reminder to stay curious.

    ...more
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    The Nick Standlea PodcastBy Nick Standlea

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