Gerard Pique confirms decision to retire from international football
Barcelona will now be the sole focus of Gerard Pique after sticking by his decision to make the 2018 World Cup his last international tournament.
Pique has put an end to a successful and controversial career with the Spanish national team to focus solely on Barcelona. Unfortunately for him, the 2018 World Cup turned out to be a major disappointment for La Roja because they were knocked out by hosts Russia in the round of 16. They were one of the pre-tournament favourites, but Julen Lopetegui’s decision to accept the Real Madrid job prior to the tournament led to him being sacked two days before it started.
The 31-year-old opted to stand by his decision to retire after the tournament even though it ends on a low note. There was hope that the appointment of former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique might persuade him to reverse his decision. However, this wasn’t the case and it gives an opportunity for someone else to stake a claim for a place now that the stalwart has left. One of either Nacho, Cesar Azpilicueta, Marc Bartra or Jesus Vallejo is likely to be the main beneficiary from this decision.
He joins Andres Iniesta in deciding to retire internationally, which leaves Enrique with two large holes to fill. However, Spain have one of best squads in international football due to the depth they have in every position so it shouldn’t be too much of an issue. They also have a manager who is adept at dealing with transitions because Xavi and Dani Alves left while Enrique was Barcelona manager.
More from FC Barcelona News
- Barça boss Xavi to get contract extension
- FC Barcelona planning swoop for Arsenal midfielder
- FC Barcelona tracking 20-year-old goal machine
- Lamine Yamal’s involvement causing tension at FC Barcelona
- How can Xavi unlock Joao Felix for FC Barcelona?
Spain have been hugely successful during Pique’s time in the team because they won the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 Euros as well as the 2008 Euros prior to him being called up. Therefore, he is a rarity in that he is experienced success domestically and internationally. The implementation of Barcelona’s style was a key part of this success, and Pique’s strong partnership with Carles Puyol provided a rigid defensive platform to work from.
Next. Yerry Mina has €60 million buyback clause in his contract. dark
This momentous decision by Pique is good news for Barcelona because it allows him to focus purely on his domestic career. His political outspokenness and proud representation of his native Catalonia while in the national team meant he wasn’t a popular figure among some sections of the fanbase. Therefore, he won’t have this distraction having as much impact on his performances and his loyalties won’t be questioned repeatedly. It also means Barcelona have one less player taking part during international breaks which is a bonus.