The former Spain international announced his retirement with a surprise statement on Thursday.
Pep Guardiola has praised Gerard Pique for his legendary career after the Barcelona star revealed he’ll soon retire from football.
Publishing a short video statement on Twitter, Pique announced he will retire after Barcelona’s match against Almeria on Saturday.
Guardiola, who worked with Pique at Barca between 2008 and 2012, paid tribute to the Spanish centre-back.
“It was surprising news,” Guardiola admitted at a press conference ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League clash against Fulham.
“After making an incredible career in Barcelona, I wish him personally all the best for him and his family.
“He was a player for the big games, never once missing or behave [badly] or have a performance not in the highest level. That is what all the big clubs need, these kind of players.
“He won everything for Barcelona and Spain. The time arrives, the future will be bright, he’s a smart guy.
“It was an honour for me personally to be his manager, and we spent an incredible four years together.”
Having won all the major trophies at least once, Pique retires as a Barcelona legend.
The upcoming game at Camp Nou will be his last professional match as a player. But rumours have already started spreading about his intention to join Barca’s hierarchy in the near future.
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