Gerard Pique believes that having to qualify for the 2014 World Cup despite being defending champions isn’t all that bad.
La Roja lifted the trophy at South Africa 2010, but their route to defending it starts through the qualification phase and tonight’s match away to Georgia.
Iker Casillas had commented earlier in the week that it ‘felt strange’ for the team to have to qualify, but Pique believes it isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
“It is not bad to have the challenge of qualifying,” mused the defender on El Larguero last night.
“It is true that the other way sees you guaranteed participation and that can give you great peace of mind when approaching the World Cup, but having competitive action is a challenge and a stimulus that can be useful.
Pique was also asked of teammate Xavi Hernandez’ declaration this week that he intends to play on until at least the end of the 2014 World Cup.
“He is one of the most important players in the history of Spain and can stay until he decides otherwise. He has the respect and admiration of the entire team and is a fundamental piece.”
