Barcelona vice-president Jordi Cardoner has defended controversial comments by Gerard Pique referencing fierce rivals Real Madrid.
Marca reports that the 30-year-old’s comment of those in the "Real box seat pull the country's strings" could provoke legal action from the Bernabeu.
"Gerard Pique has not told a lie and Barca will always be on the side of the truth,” Cardoner is quoted as saying by La Vanguardia.
"The truth does not have to start a conflict. From what I heard, Pique expressed a free opinion and exercised his freedom of expression. He didn't disrespect anyone. He has spoken clearly and at times that clarity can offend."
Meanwhile, La Liga president Javier Tebas feels the comments were a ‘mistake’ but should not cause any lasting damage ahead of the El Clasico in Madrid next month.
"Pique made a mistake, that is all. I don't think his comments generate violence but tension,” Tebas explained to Marca.
Barca currently trail Zinedine Zidane’s men at the top of the league by two points, with the Madrid side having a game in hand.