Pique to quit Spain in 2018: "I can't bear this anymore"
- by Emilio Sims
- in Money
- — Oct 12, 2016
Gerard Pique is set to retire at the end of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russian Federation.
"They have succeeded in killing my joy in playing for Spain and even though after Russian Federation I'll only be 31, I'm going to quit then", added Pique.
Pique's decision to put a date on his retirement from worldwide football comes in light of a controversial few months for the centre-back.
Gerard Pique caused a stir on social media by appearing against Albania with the sleeves cut off his Spain shirt.
A statement read: "The Royal Spanish Football Federation wishes to show its support to the global footballer Gerard Pique about the controversy regarding the cut made on his jersey in the match against Albania. It's not because of what happened today, it's because I always give my best on the field and, although there are some people who have thanked me, some don't think it's okay for me to be here". He said the long sleeves were bothering him.
The 29-year-old has 84 caps for his country but admitted after the match that he had lost the "excitement" of playing for his national team. The Spanish football jersey usually has the Spanish flag on the sleeve.
"I find this whole debate completely absurd. It's embarrassing. Nobody forces anyone to do anything and if you don't want to play, like (Catalan) Oleguer (Presas) back in the day, then you don't".
Barcelona defender says there are plenty who don't play for Spain. These accusations he (Pique) lacks commitment, or that if you cover the colours of the flag on your socks... I've tried everything but can't take any more.
"I don't know [how he is taking it], but he's probably sick of everything".
Pique has certainly had an incredible worldwide career and even after he steps away from Spain, he wants to continue playing for Barcelona.
The new manager of the national side, Julen Lopetegui, attempted to ease concerns over the player's decision, giving short shrift to the "controversy" by stating that "it doesn't seem serious to me".
"Life goes on. I still want to be with Barcelona for several years".
