In a new crisis that the veteran player enters following the end of his relationship with the famous Colombian singer Shakira, Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez told Gerard Pique, the team’s defender, not to rely on him as a key player next season.
In the details, Xavi met with Pique and told him that he would not be a key player next season, due to physical problems and his unprofessional behavior off the field, according to the Catalan newspaper, “Sport”.
“hard thing”
The newspaper added that the meeting was difficult, explaining that Xavi spoke directly with Pique.
He also stressed in his words that he does not question his quality as a player, which is undeniable, but that his physical endurance in the next season is difficult, and Xavi’s main problem with Pique lies in his commercial interests off the field.
In addition, Xavi believes that Pique’s departure from the team is the best option, especially if he gives up some of the money that Barcelona owes him, as Carlos Puyol did previously, but Pique refused this and confirmed that it would not happen and wanted to respond to Xavi’s arguments, and that he would train more strongly. To get back to his best.
While Xavi returned and insisted on contracting a central defender who might build a competitive team on him, he said that he did not see Pique in this role, and mentioned the name of the French Conde, the Seville defender.
Separation following 12 years
It is noteworthy that the contract of the Spanish defender with the Catalan club extends to 2024.
Pique Shakira (AFP)
Barcelona owes Pique around 40 million euros in commercial payments that have been deferred.
On a family level, the famous duo (Shakira and Pique) announced the news of the separation, in an official statement, more than a week ago, calling for respect for privacy, ending a 12-year relationship that resulted in two children, and rumors are largely unfounded.