I will retire at Barca and that’s for sure – Pique
Barcelona veteran defender talks about his future plans at Camp Nou.
defender
Gerard Pique, who joined the Blaugrana in 2008, has spoken to
El Pais
about his future plans at Camp Nou. The 34 year-old says that although he wants to retire at Barca, he may have to make a different decision if it comes down to sitting on a bench for a whole year.
"I've never had competition like that, but it is not a bad thing,"
Pique said.
"As a young man you learn at what level you can compete.
"When I was 19 and on loan at Real Zaragoza I discovered that I could perform in LaLiga against the greats.
"At 34 you know what level you are at and whether you're going to play.
"The debate over 'veterans' and youngsters is created by the media and extends to the fans.
"It's like with the national team when there was a campaign about whether Pique should be there or not – that's where the whistles generated from.
"As some of us who have been here for many years know, it's good to see new people. I understand youngsters are the attraction because they're the future and it's a project.
"But older players are necessary, and I'm not just saying that because I'm the oldest. I have the experience of having lived through a lot and can pass that on."
The Spaniard added:
"The truth is I don't feel like a 'veteran.
"The other day I saw the record I was the oldest European scorer for Barca and that depressed me a little.
"But then I saw Roberto Carlos was the defender I'm level with for most goals and that was better.
"Of course, if I reach an age that I'm no longer considered as important as I've previously been, I will go.
"But I still have my rebellious side, I still make the same jokes and I feel physically well.
"I'm not the fastest, but I can compete against the best and not feel inferior. As long as it remains like that, I'll play.
"I will retire at Barca. That is for sure.
"What I won't accept is playing as a substitute. If it comes to the last three months of a season and that happens, well... But a whole year on the bench? No, I don't want that."
DISCLAIMER! Sportmob does not claim ownership of any of the pictures posted on this website. Again, we do not host pictures or videos ourselves. Our authors merely link to the rightful owner. Lastly, Sportmob have carefully considered and reviewed all of its content. Despite that, it is possible that some information might be out-dated or incomplete.