Retiring defender Carles Puyol has claimed that he "lived the dream" throughout his career with Barcelona.

The 36-year-old will bring his illustrious career to an end at the end of the season due to the effects of a knee problem, and he claims that it is not the trophies he will remember when looking back at his time with the Catalan club.

"I would never have thought then that I would have this great career," he said. "I've lived the dream of so many young kids, doing what I most enjoy in life, playing football and training. I've won lots of titles but the most important thing is the human warmth and feeling I take from this club.

"The one thing I have very clear is that I gave my absolute all for Barcelona and for football and I would like to be remembered as a player who did just that – who gave everything.

"For 19 years I have been able to do what I love. I've won many trophies but what will remain with me is the human side of this club."

Since making his debut for the first team in 1999, Puyol has won six La Liga titles and tasted success in the Champions League on three occasions.