Gerard Pique retires: It was like taking a heavy burden off my again once I walked off the pitch

Gerard Pique performed his final match for Barcelona in a 2-0 win over Almeria at Camp Nou on Saturday. The retiring footballer stated that strolling off the pitch felt like taking a heavy burden off his again.

New Delhi ,UPDATED: Nov 6, 2022 08:06 IST

Gerard Pique acquired a standing ovation in his remaining match. (AP Photo)

By India Today Web Desk: Retiring Barcelona defender Gerard Pique stated that he felt liberated after strolling off the pitch within the 83rd minute of the La Liga match towards Almeria at Camp Nou on Saturday.

A teary-eyed Pique walked off to a standing ovation when coach Xavi Hernandez took him off in Barcelona’s 2-0 win over Almeria. The 35-year-old on Friday introduced that the Saturday match at Camp Nou can be his final.

“It was like taking a heavy burden off my back when I walked off the pitch,” Pique advised DAZN. “The last few months were really difficult and today I felt liberated. It was a lifetime experience that I will take forever with me.

“I’m joyful for giving all of it for this membership. There had been good and unhealthy days, however I’m pleased with it. I feel I go away with a job nicely accomplished.”

Pique started the match as captain in a season where he was subjected to criticism for his poor form. The defender also fell out of favour with coach Xavi, who reportedly asked Pique to either leave or retire.

The signings of centre backs Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and the breakout of youngster Ronald Araujo forced Pique to sit on the bench.

According to reports, Pique is set to renounce the remaining year and half of his salary, a decision that would help Barcelona improve its Financial Fair Play margin.

“Pique was excellent at this time and has as soon as once more proven that the larger the sport, the extra it pays off,” Xavi told DAZN. “I’ve advised him that he’s a legend at Barca and we’re very grateful for his years on the membership.”

Pique was lifted by his teammates after the match and fans celebrated his career by chanting “President! President! President!” as he’s extensively thought-about as the long run candidate for the submit at Barcelona.

Published On:

Nov 6, 2022