Gerard Piqué announced his withdrawal plan from FC Barcelona after Saturday’s game against Almería. The 35-year-old spent most of his youth and senior career with the Catalan club. Arrived in 2008 from Manchester United, Piqué has made 396 appearances with the Blaugrana kit.
Piqué’s announcement is surprising and comes at a strange time. In terms of personal milestones, Piqué is only four games away from reaching 400 with Barcelona in LaLiga. He would be just the fifth player in history to achieve that milestone. In total, he surpassed 600 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona.
Also, it’s rare for players to retire mid-season like this. Traditionally, players mark their final season. Or they just make that announcement in the off season.
Even so, the center posted a video on his Twitter account. The caption translates into Catalan as “Culers, I have to tell you something.”
This season, Piqué appeared in seven official matches, including three in the UEFA Champions League.
Gerard Piqué announces his retirement from playing career
Piqué’s performances this season are far from the days of his past. The Spanish international took a backseat to players like Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araújo and Jules Koundé. In fact, Barcelona fans blamed Piqué for one of the goals the club conceded against Inter Milan in a 3-3 Champions League draw.
Gerard Hammered is second captain of Sergio Busquets. Now, that position is vacant for another player to fill.
Unfortunately, Piqué’s stage as a player ended unceremoniously. The frequent discussions about his personal life and his relationship with Shakira did the player no favors. Also, the fall of him in the form of him caused him to fall out of favor with the Culers.
On the other hand, Pique shows more passion than perhaps any other Barcelona player in recent years. Indeed, his goal against Sevilla in the 2020 Copa del Rey semi-final to tie the game in extra time brought joy to Barcelona fans at a time they desperately needed him. He also played a key role with the Spanish team. He helped the team win back-to-back European championships, with a World Cup in between in 2010.
In addition, the fans hope that the defensive standout can return to Barcelona in some other way. For example, Piqué’s video showed his intentions.
“Sooner or later, I’ll be back.”
Piqué’s last game before retirement against Almería is on Saturday, November 5, with coverage on ESPN+.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Pressinphoto
