has not been a great year for Gerard Pique so far. The Barcelona defender has missed a chunk of the second half of the season due to an injury while being involved in the Spanish Supercup controversy with RFEF president Luis Rubiales.
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, there appear to be growing concerns over the fitness and the future of Gerard Pique in the Barcelona camp
The Catalans are particularly worried about the adductor discomfort that has kept him out on the sidelines since the first leg encounter against Eintracht Frankfurt, in the UEFA Europa League.
Barça believe Pique’s discomfort may reappear next season, potentially forcing Xavi to rely on younger defenders such as Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia and new signing Andreas Christensen.
If the injury issues were not enough, Barcelona are also worried over Pique’s salary. The defender is currently the highest-paid member in the Barça camp, and his current deal does not expire until 2024.
The club have no complaints regarding the Spaniard’s performances on the pitch, as he offers invaluable leadership and experience to the backline. It has been critical in helping the club nurture talents such as Araujo and Garcia.
But if Pique continues to struggle with injuries, Barcelona could end up ruing the high salary of the defender.
The 35-year-old could well become one of the first candidates if the board asks the players to once again settle for a salary cut, though it remains unlikely as the defender had taken up a salary cut last summer, helping the club register Memphis Depay.
In light of Pique’s precarious situation, meanwhile, Barcelona have kickstarted their search for a new central defender. They have tried their hand at signing Jules Kounde, but the Catalans have now set their sights on Napoli superstar Kalidou Koulibaly
