Pranav Kannan
Manchester United pay tribute to Barcelona defender Gerard Pique
Manchester United have paid a tribute as quoted by Manchester Evening News, to former centre-back Gerard Pique who spent four seasons here at Old Trafford between 2004 and 2008 before returning to his boyhood club Barcelona and becoming a legend of the Spanish club.
Pique, who is 35 years old played his last game at Spotify Camp Nou last night in what was an emotional affair for the Spaniard. The centre-back signed off with a 2-0 win against La Liga side Almeria.
There is absolutely no denying Pique’s legacy in the game. One of the best centre-backs in the world during his prime, the former Manchester United defender might not have had the best of times in England but was sensational in Spain.
After playing just 23 games for Man United during his time here, Pique has gone back to his boyhood club to play 616 games for the Catalan club. The talented centre-back also has a whopping 102 caps for the Spanish national team.
Pique has won everything that there is to be won in a Barcelona shirt. He signs off as one of the club’s most decorated players and although his retirement midseason comes as a surprise, he can go out as one of the greats of the game.
The Spaniard has not had the best of times this campaign with Pique losing his starting spot in the team to the likes of Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and even the likes of Marcos Alonso.
Man United have paid a tribute to their former star wishing him a happy retirement and it is only fair since the Spaniard deserves that.
“All at United would like to wish Gerard well in his retirement.”
On his last-ever game at the Nou Camp, Pique dropped a masterclass in defence. He was sensational against the La Liga newbies Almeria snuffing out every attack at source and putting in a display of long-range passing.
Ironically, last night’s performance was arguably Pique’s best one this season and it was a very fitting way for the Spaniard to bow out. Although Xavi did reveal that he would count on his former teammate for the game midweek, it seems highly unlikely that the Spanish defender will play in it.
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Gerard Pique can retire from the game as a genuine legend. It is an honour that he has worn the Manchester United shirt, albeit for a very short period but he will always be remembered for his exploits as a Barcelona player.
