Breaking: Gerrad Pique Announce Retirement From Football

Gerard Pique, a former defender for Manchester United, is ending his illustrious career.

After a second stint filled with trophies with the Catalan giants, the elegant center-back will hang up his boots after Barcelona’s match against Almeria at the Nou Camp on Saturday night.

The 35-year-old first switched from his childhood team to United in 2004, and he was a member of the group that won the Premier League and the Champions League in 2007–2008.

He scored twice in 23 games for the Reds after making his debut against Crewe Alexandra in the League Cup before returning to La Liga in the summer of 2008.

Pique has won over 30 trophies during his career, including eight domestic title wins and three Champions League triumphs – two of the latter were with Barcelona at the expense of Sir Alex Ferguson’s United in the final.

“I’ve always said that there would not be any other team after Barca,” said Pique. “And that’s how it will be.

“Football has given me everything. Barca has given me everything. You, culers [the fans], have given me everything and now that all that kid’s dreams have come true, I want to tell you I have decided that now is the time to bring this journey to its end.”

There has been speculation the club legend could return to Barcelona in some capacity further down the line.

“You know me,” he added. “Sooner or later, I will be back. I’ll see you at the Nou Camp. Long live Barca, always!”