Gerard Pique talks Yamal, Gavi, Cubarsi, Luis Figo, Barcelona presidency | OneFootball

Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique took the fans on an impromptu journey through the history of Barcelona, speaking candidly about various moments from his career, including the memories surrounding Luis Figo’s departure to Real Madrid.

He acknowledged the impact Figo’s move had on Barcelona fans, describing it as a difficult chapter in the club’s history.

Pique also expressed his excitement about the current crop of young talents, particularly Lamine Yamal, who he described as a “super-gifted player” with immense potential.

Training with Lamine Yamal

Gerard Pique pointed out youngsters’ resurgence. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Reflecting on his time at Barcelona, Pique mentioned how he trained with Lamine during his final year at the club when the young talent was just 15 years old. He noted that even at that age, Lamine’s skills were already evident.

Pique also pointed out that, due to Barcelona’s financial struggles, young players like Yamal, Gavi, and Pau Cubarsi were fast-tracked into the first team.

However, he expressed hope that the club’s financial situation would improve soon, allowing them to strengthen the squad in the future.

“I trained with Lamine in my last year at Barça, I must have been 15 and you could already see it. Barça didn’t have money and the youngsters came out earlier.

“Gavi, Cubarsi, Lamine… But we’re going to turn things around financially…”, he told La Revuelta.

Thoughts on current state of Barcelona

Pique insists Barcelona are playing well. (Photo by Borja B. Hojas/Getty Images)

When discussing the current state of Barcelona, Pique stressed that despite the challenges the club has faced, fans should be proud of the team.

He emphasised that the squad is playing well, fighting for every title, and, importantly, featuring many homegrown talents that embody the spirit of the club.

“Let’s not play the victim, if you are a Barça fan you have to be happy because the team is playing well, fighting for everything and with homegrown players.”

The Luis Figo story

Pique reflected on Luis Figo’s transfer (Photo credit: Firo Photo/ALLSPORT)

Pique also took the opportunity to revisit Figo’s controversial move to Real Madrid, admitting that the former player’s actions had caused lasting damage to Barcelona.

“He knows the damage he has done to Barça, it will be remembered for life,” he explained.

Pique recalled the time Figo had claimed he was still a Barcelona player, only to be seen wearing a Real Madrid shirt shortly after. For Barcelona fans, it remains a moment of great disappointment.

“I have a normal relationship with him, I saw him recently in Abu Dhabi. I will tell him everything he has done to our face.

“One day he said he was still at Barça and the next he was wearing the Real Madrid shirt. It was very painful, it was when he went to the field every two weeks,” he added.

Future presidency

Finally, Pique touched on his future, particularly his previous aspirations to become president of Barcelona.

He called for patience, stating that while he may pursue that path in the future, for now, he is content with his current projects, including his involvement with the King’s League and spending time with his family.

“At some point [yes], but we’ll see, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, I’m very happy now and busy with the King’s League, the family,” he concluded.