My Influence On Gerard Pique—Rio Ferdinand Reveals

On Saturday, after the La Liga game between Barcelona and Almeria, a Barcelona great retired from the game, but prior to being a Barca great, Gerard Pique was once a boy schooled by Rio Ferdinand into greatness.

The Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, has revealed the key role he played into establishing Gerard Pique in the halls of greatness.

In his poignant homage to Pique, Ferdinand said this as the Barcelona defender played the final game of his career on Saturday against Almeria.

Between 2004 and 2008, Pique made 23 appearances for Man United.

The Premier League powerhouses received two goals and one assist from the Spaniard.

Pique announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 35 on Thursday, sending a complete shockwave across the entire community.

On Saturday, when Barcelona defeated Almeria 2-0 at Camp Nou, the 2010 World Cup winner had his final outing in a Barcelona jersey.

Ferdinand, who formerly partnered Pique at the center of Man United’s defense, expressed his admiration for the center-back in response to the development.

Ferdinand wrote on his Instagram story:

“Gerard My man, what a career! Many people don’t know but I actually played one of the biggest parts in making you. The fact that myself and Nemanja were playing at Man Utd you never had a chance….so you had to move on to Barcelona!!!”

He added:

“That was my part in catapulting you to greatness!! But seriously, when you went to Barcelona I don’t even think that you could imagine your career would go as crazy as it went – trophies galore with both club and country. One thing you had to do when you left was mature, you did this so quickly because your intelligence took over. A mainstay in both teams, that many consider the best teams EVER!”

“Respect my man for a truly great career. PS – President of Barca watching 7yrs…..”