Carles Puyol Reportedly Resumes Training Ahead of Possible Comeback Bid

FC Barcelona legend Carles Puyol may not be able to stay away from football after all. The 36-year-old, bullish centre-back is attempting a comeback from retirement.

That's according to Mundo Deportivo's Cristina Cubero (h/t Mirror reporter Aaron Flanagan). Puyol, who hung up his boots last May, has started training to get back into playing shape.

Denis Doyle/Getty Images

However, the rock-solid defender who won a plethora of major trophies with Barca, apparently won't be returning to the Camp Nou. Instead, his destination could be the U.S. or Asia, per Flanagan:

"

It is thought that a team in New York or Qatar could be interested in his services on a short-term deal.

New York City FC still have room for one more designated player, while Puyol's former Barcelona team-mate Xavi looks set to agree a deal with Qatari side Al-Sadd this summer.

"

The lure of a big MLS payday seems too much for many illustrious old pros to resist, maybe Puyol will be the next. The player harbours no ambitions to be a manager, per Flanagan. But his experience, smarts and physicality would still be a major asset to any side in a rapidly improving league.

Yet a reunion with Xavi Hernandez might be too good to pass up. Perhaps the distinguished pass-master has prompted Puyol's sudden comeback bid by regularly talking up a Qatar switch.

Either way, if he can prove his fitness, Puyol will still have a lot to offer on the right deal.