Carles Puyol turned down an opportunity to rejoin Barcelona as its sporting director.

“It has not been an easy decision, since I have always said that I would like to return to what I consider my home. But various personal projects in which I am immersed would prevent me, at this time, from giving the exclusive dedication that the position deserves. I would like to thank the club for the trust placed in me by offering me this position of so much responsibility," said Puyol on Twitter.

Barcelona have been without a sporting director since Pep Segura resigned in July.