Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique took the followers on an impromptu journey by way of the historical past of Barcelona, talking candidly about varied moments from his profession, together with the reminiscences surrounding Luis Figo’s departure to Actual Madrid.
He acknowledged the influence Figo’s transfer had on Barcelona followers, describing it as a tough chapter within the membership’s historical past.
Pique additionally expressed his pleasure in regards to the present crop of younger abilities, notably Lamine Yamal, who he described as a “super-gifted participant” with immense potential.
Coaching with Lamine Yamal
Gerard Pique identified children’ resurgence. (Picture by David Ramos/Getty Pictures)
Reflecting on his time at Barcelona, Pique talked about how he skilled with Lamine throughout his closing 12 months on the membership when the younger expertise was simply 15 years previous. He famous that even at that age, Lamine’s expertise have been already evident.
Pique additionally identified that, as a consequence of Barcelona’s monetary struggles, younger gamers like Yamal, Gavi, and Pau Cubarsi have been fast-tracked into the primary group.
Nevertheless, he expressed hope that the membership’s monetary scenario would enhance quickly, permitting them to strengthen the squad sooner or later.
“I skilled with Lamine in my final 12 months at Barça, I should have been 15 and you could possibly already see it. Barça didn’t have cash and the children got here out earlier.
“Gavi, Cubarsi, Lamine… However we’re going to show issues round financially…”, he advised La Revuelta.
Ideas on present state of Barcelona
Pique insists Barcelona are taking part in effectively. (Picture by Borja B. Hojas/Getty Pictures)
When discussing the present state of Barcelona, Pique burdened that regardless of the challenges the membership has confronted, followers needs to be pleased with the group.
He emphasised that the squad is taking part in effectively, combating for each title, and, importantly, that includes many homegrown abilities that embody the spirit of the membership.
“Let’s not play the sufferer, in case you are a Barça fan it’s a must to be blissful as a result of the group is taking part in effectively, combating for every part and with homegrown gamers.”
The Luis Figo story
Pique mirrored on Luis Figo’s switch (Picture credit score: Firo Picture/ALLSPORT)
Pique additionally took the chance to revisit Figo’s controversial transfer to Actual Madrid, admitting that the previous participant’s actions had triggered lasting injury to Barcelona.
“He is aware of the injury he has completed to Barça, it will likely be remembered for all times,” he defined.
Pique recalled the time Figo had claimed he was nonetheless a Barcelona participant, solely to be seen sporting a Actual Madrid shirt shortly after. For Barcelona followers, it stays a second of nice disappointment.
“I’ve a traditional relationship with him, I noticed him lately in Abu Dhabi. I’ll inform him every part he has completed to our face.
“Sooner or later he mentioned he was nonetheless at Barça and the subsequent he was sporting the Actual Madrid shirt. It was very painful, it was when he went to the sphere each two weeks,” he added.
Future presidency
Lastly, Pique touched on his future, notably his earlier aspirations to grow to be president of Barcelona.
He referred to as for persistence, stating that whereas he might pursue that path sooner or later, for now, he’s content material along with his present initiatives, together with his involvement with the King’s League and spending time along with his household.
“Sooner or later [yes], however we’ll see, let’s not get forward of ourselves, I’m very blissful now and busy with the King’s League, the household,” he concluded.