Retired defender Gerard Pique, was unable to play in Barcelona’s away game against Osasuna owing to a red card, in his final game due to comments on the lead, the veteran was shown red at half time on his final day of play.
After the halfway break, Pique walked to El Sadar to seek a report from referee Jess Gil Manzano. After two yellow cards in the 31st minute, the arbiter sent Robert Lewandowski off the pitch. Pique appeared to think the penalty was excessive and complained to the referee. After entering the players tunnel, the complaining persisted, resulting in a red card.
The 35-year-old has now played his final minutes for Barcelona. He announced his retirement last week and said farewell to the Camp Nou audience on Saturday as a starter in the home game against Almeria.
Retired defender Gerard Pique’s reported replacement
In other developments, Barcelona has acquired Aymeric Laporte and Iigo Martnez as defensive reinforcements. The Catalans intend to sign a new centre defender in January, according to Sport.
Gerard Pique’s early retirement leaves a void in Barcelona’s lineup. The veteran did not see much action this season, but trainer Xavi would like to have another alternative in the centre of the defence. Martnez would be the first pick of the Barcelona leadership. Athletic de Bilbao has signed the 31-year-old left leg till the conclusion of the season. Due to the expiration of the 19-time Spanish international’s contract, Barcelona wishes to acquire him for a relatively inexpensive transfer fee.
Manchester City’s 28-year-old defender is more valuable, which is why Barcelona is willing to go deeper for him. A move to Camp Nou would mean a return to La Liga for Laporte. Athletic sold the Spain international, who was born in France, to City in January 2018. Laporte is a member of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola’s rotation scheme.
