Gerard Pique on critics: The Barcelona defender lashes out at his critics after a frustrating draw against Valencia.
Barcelona’s disappointing run in the La Liga continued yesterday as they were forced to a 1-1 draw against Valencia. Gerard Pique’s slumpy clearance in the second minute of the match gave a chance for Ezequiel Garay to give Valencia an early lead in the game.
Barcelona equalized through Lionel Messi, but failed to secure three points.
Ernesto Valverde’s side has now dropped to second position in the league, with Sevilla at first. Barcelona’s arch-rivals Real Madrid endured their fourth consecutive goalless match against Deportivo Alaves, as Lopetegui’s side suffered a stunning 1-0 defeat.
Barcelona’s central defender Gerard Pique is struggling with form at the moment, and has been the centre of criticism ever since the season began. However, the Spanish defender has now lashed out at his critics after a frustrating evening.
Gerard Pique on critics:
The veteran Barcelona defender insisted that he was at fault, but adds that people want to see him fail. In the post-match interview, Gerard Pique lashed out at the media.
“I feel good physically, although it’s true that I made a big error against Leganes,” said Pique.
“A lot of people are hoping that things don’t go well for me and when we concede a goal it’s always Pique’s fault — and not just in Madrid. As I’m critical of the media, they’re waiting for me [to make mistakes] and want to get me.
“They can enjoy it [at the moment], the [journalists on] television should come out of their caves and enjoy the sun. It’s part of the game.
“It’s normal being the veteran of the back line and the player that’s on the cover of the paper the most, due to what I do and say, that when things do not go well I’m singled out. You have to get used to it.
“The important thing is that the team wins and if we don’t concede then even better.”
What next?
Barcelona players will now head off for the international break on Monday. Gerard Pique, who announced his retirement from international football following Spain’s disappointing World Cup campaign, will have some time to introspect before Barcelona returns to La Liga action against league leaders Sevilla on October 20.
