Gerard Pique discussed the comment he made when celebrating Barcelona’s title win that led to being whistled when playing for Spain. “I still think it was funny…”
Pique joked at Real Madrid’s expense when celebrating Barcelona’s title win, referencing a birthday party held by Cristiano Ronaldo at which Kevin Roldan performed and thanking the singer for starting Barca’s title push.
“I still think it was funny and it always will be. There’s respect and I didn’t insult anyone. There’s nothing wrong with small barbs at your rival,” the centre-back reportedly said in an interview with Movistar, according to AS.
“The crowd at Santiago Bernabeu is very respectful. Nothing strange has happened.”
The full interview is to be broadcast next week and Pique elaborated on what being jeered means to him, but ruled out quitting La Roja over the fans’ reception, even after he was targeted at the team hotel in Alicante.
“Whistles are a circumstance I’ve lived through, nobody likes them,” he admitted.
“To leave the national team now would be giving credit to people who don’t deserve it. The other option, the one I have chosen, is to stay here, be part of the team and do everything I can.”
Pique also discussed Barcelona teammate Neymar, specifically how the Brazil captain has adapted both in the presence and in the absence of Lionel Messi.
“He’s been the most supportive player I’ve seen since he arrived,” Pique said of the former Santos forward.
“Neymar has managed knowing Leo is the protagonist, and when Messi has been here he’s been able to take the reins and he’s been even better [than with Messi]. He’s the best in the world in one-on-ones.”
Asked how he approaches the world, Pique pointed to his upbringing and vowed he would always do what he believes to be right.
“My philosophy is to be honest. My parents taught me that when I was small and that’s how I’ll be until I die,” he promised.
“I’d rather be wrong doing what I believe than do things I don’t believe in.”
