Barcelona boss Xavi has reportedly told Gerard Pique that he is surplus to requirements due to his ‘physical problems’ and ‘unprofessional conduct off the pitch’.
This is according to Spanish outlet Sport, who say that Xavi believes the best option for all parties is for the centre-half to leave the club.
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The former midfielder does not deny Pique’s footballing ability, however, does not believe he has the physical capability to endure a full season at the top level.
Furthermore, the 35-year-old has multiple business interests, which is his ‘main issue off the field’.
Pique is eager to stay at the Nou Camp and is under contract until 2024, meanwhile, Barca are believed to owe him €40m in wages, meaning he is ’99 per cent’ likely to stay.
The report adds that he will stay and fight for his place in the team and is prepared to ‘train harder’ than ever and ‘abandon other commitments’ in order to get back to his best form.
Xavi is reportedly keen on replacing the legendary defender with Sevilla’s Jules Kounde, who is a top target for Premier League side Chelsea.
Pique is one of the most decorated players in Barca’s history. He has over 600 appearances for the Blaugrana and has won eight La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues and seven Copa del Reys.
His success does not end at club level having helped Spain win Euro 2012 and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Elsewhere, Arsenal have confirmed the signing of 19-year-old Brazilian forward Marquinhos from Sao Paolo.
Gunners technical director Edu told the club website: “We’re delighted to have completed the transfer with Sao Paulo as Marquinhos was a player we had been watching for a while.
“At 19, he is still very young, so he is a player for the future.
“We look forward to Marquinhos now joining us for pre-season, making his new home, and continuing to grow and develop with us.”
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