EXCLUSIVE: How perfectionist Samuel Umtiti prepares for Barcelona games

EXCLUSIVE: How perfectionist Samuel Umtiti prepares for Barcelona games

The French centre-back has a methodical approach to his preparation for games and it is paying dividends

Samuel Umtiti is, of all the new signings, bringing the most to Luis Enrique's team. The French centre-back was instantly liked by Barcelona fans from the first day thanks to his performances and the fact he understands the job perfectly - it's been a tricky position for Barcelona to fill. Umtiti has been found in Barcelona like he was the final piece of a puzzle. But beyond what the fans see, he works hard every day in training.

When Umtiti arrived at Barcelona he said: "I've seen so many Barcelona games so I know them very well. I see that you hae to be prepared. Here I will not have the same life as in Lyon. I will be prepared." He has followed his words to the letter and since he arrived, has been striving to be better.

Luis Enrique is a modern coach who uses video to correct errors and explain situations to his players. Umtiti has his own set up at home. He goes through the fixture list and plans the necessary videos he will need to study his opponents. He's almost like a coach watching the games, making notes of what he needs watch for if he plays. He is focused, of course, mainly on the strikers of opposing teams. He watches their movements with the ball and without it, thinking about how he can take advantage. 

He doesn't just do it to be prepared for the games that are coming up, but just to be prepared in gneeral for when Luis Enrique gives him the call. Umtiti is a perfectionist who takes care of each detail regarding his preparation, in terms of diet and rest too. A professional who gives his all in each training session. It's nothing strange then, that Luis Enrique is seeing he could be ahead of Mascherano to be Gerard Pique's partner.