Former Barcelona and Spain superstar center-back Gerard Piqué is widely acclaimed as one of the world’s best defenders for his contributions to the Spanish club and the national team. He enjoyed a trophy-laden career, winning numerous titles at the club level, and played a crucial role in Spain’s golden generation.
The Spaniard won the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and the UEFA Euro in 2012, securing every possible accolade in the sport, including participating in two memorable treble-winning campaigns. Piqué has consistently acknowledged the impact of his spell in England under Sir Alex Ferguson in shaping his remarkable career.
Gerard Pique credits Sir Alex Ferguson for his iconic career
Gerard Pique rose from the prestigious La Masia academy and made an impressive 667 club appearances. Throughout his career, this formidable defender clinched a staggering 34 trophies count with Manchester United and Barcelona. Additionally, he has earned 102 caps for the Spanish senior national team, capturing two of the most prestigious international trophies.
Last year, after guiding Barcelona to their 26th La Liga title in the 2022–23 season, he decided to hang up his boots, thus concluding his glittering career. Piqué spent four years at Old Trafford under the legendary Manchester United boss, Sir Alex Ferguson, signing with the Premier League club at 17 from Barcelona’s youth system.
The 37-year-old on Sky Sports, while discussing his transfer back to Spain and his relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson, described him as “like a second father.” He credited Ferguson’s role in facilitating his move to Barcelona at a lower transfer fee—a move that significantly changed his career. United boss later termed it as “biggest regret.”
During his tenure in England, the former Spanish center-back shared the pitch with legendary defenders Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand. However, after struggling to secure a regular spot in the first team, he returned to his boyhood club, Barcelona, where he experienced the prime of his playing career.
Gerard Pique claims Xavi’s future likely to be in England
Gerard Piqué also commented on the managerial situation of his former teammate and current manager, Xavi Hernandez. The retired center-back played under Xavi’s management in his final season last year, before taking retirement. As Xavi has announced that he will not be in charge of the club from next season. The former defender expressed his desire for Xavi to continue with the Catalans.
However, should he decide to leave Barca, Piqué believes the Premier League would be an ideal destination for Xavi, citing the presence of the world’s best managers in England. He specifically named two well-reputed English club bosses, Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola, both of whom have associations with Barcelona.
