Gerard Pique has announced his retirement from professional football and says his final game will be Barcelona’s match against Almeria at the Nou Camp on Saturday.
The 35-year-old, an eight-time La Liga and three-time Champions League winner with boyhood club Barcelona, revealed the news in a video message posted on his social media.
“Football has given me everything,” he said. “Barcelona has given me everything. You, Culers (Barcelona fans), have given me everything.
“And now that [this] kid’s dreams have come true, I want to tell you that I’ve decided that now is the time to bring this journey to its end.”
Pique, who won 102 caps for Spain and was part of the team that won the 2010 World Cup, has only started five games for Barcelona this season.
However, the former Manchester United defender noted that he wants to end his playing career at Barcelona.
He said:
“I’ve always said that there would not be any other team after Barca, and that’s how it will be.”
Pique concluded by hinting at a future return to the club in a non-playing capacity.
“This Saturday’s game will be my last at Camp Nou,” he said.
“I will become a regular fan. I will support the team. I will pass my love for Barcelona to my children.
“And you know me – sooner or later, I’ll be back.”
