Gerard Pique of Barcelona could potentially be released by the club in 2021 despite signing a new deal until the summer of 2024 recently
Gerard Pique was one of the four players that had their contracts renewed with Barcelona recently. The vice-captain signed a contract extension until the summer of 2024 and if honoured, the Spaniard would most likely hang his boots up at the age of 37 then.
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However, the question of Pique being at the club until 2024 is now uncertain despite recently signing a contract renewal. It has been reported that a clause in the contract states a possible premature termination.
The termination of the deal can only be exercised if Gerard Pique fails to play less than 35% of the games in the 2021/22 season. If the Spanish defender plays over 35% of the games next season then his contract will be extended until the summer of 2024.
The 33-year-old has also been given a free hand in his contract as he can walk out whenever he wishes or retire as per his convenience. However, to leave the club, Pique can only exercise this option if he signs a deal with a non-European sporting institution.
Given Barca’s current defensive woes, the contract renewal of Gerard Pique has certainly not gone down well with several fans who believe that the Spaniard has been underperforming for quite a while.
Many believe that the 33-year-old should make way next season for a young defender. The Catalans are eager on signing Eric Garcia of Manchester City and will make an attempt to sign the young Spanish defender in the winter transfer market. If Garcia does become a Blaugrana this winter and settles well into the squad then Barca could consider offering Pique a secondary role or terminating his contract.