3 Reasons for Gerard Pique's return to football

Gerard Pique celebrating the 2011 Champions League title || Image credit: Imago

3 Reasons for Gerard Pique's return to football

Ayoola Kelechi 14:25 - 11.01.2024

The Barcelona legend has made a shock decision to join mainstream football by becoming a coach

Gerard Pique, the former Barcelona star, has made a surprising decision to return to football, but this time in a coaching capacity. This announcement, made in January 2024, comes after Pique retired from professional play in November 2022. 

Since his retirement, he has been focusing on his King's League project. His return to football, particularly in a coaching role, has sparked considerable speculation and excitement among fans and analysts alike, as per Asia Net.

3 reasons Gerard Pique turned to coaching

Passion for football: Pique's deep-seated love for the game seems to be a primary driver behind his decision. His statement, "I miss it a lot," highlights his ongoing passion for football, a sport in which he has spent the majority of his life, both as a player and as a contributor off the field.

Gerard Pique won 38 trophies as a player | Imago
Gerard Pique won 38 trophies as a player | Imago

New challenges and ambitions: After a successful career as a player, Pique is possibly seeking new challenges and ways to contribute to the sport. Transitioning to a coaching role allows him to apply his extensive experience and understanding of the game in a new and influential way.

Gerard Pique and Pep Guardiola together at Barcelona | Imago
Gerard Pique and Pep Guardiola together at Barcelona | Imago

Continued involvement in football dynamics: Despite retiring, Pique's interest in remaining actively involved in football hasn't waned. His engagement with the King's League indicates his desire to stay connected with the sport, and coaching offers a direct way to continue influencing the game.

Where could Pique coach next?

According to Euro Foot on X, there is considerable speculation about where Pique might end up coaching. One possibility is a reunion with his former teammate, Xavi Hernandez, at Barcelona. 

Another option could be FC Andorra, the Segunda Division side of which he is the owner. However, as of now, Pique has not disclosed the specific team he will be associated with.

Pique's football legacy

Pique has been a significant figure in football, both on and off the pitch. His contributions as a player at Barcelona, his business ventures like the King's League, and his potential future role as Barcelona's President have all been points of discussion in the football community. His return to football in a coaching capacity adds another chapter to his already illustrious career.

Gerard Pique is the first defender in Barcelona history to play 600 or more games | Imago
Gerard Pique is the first defender in Barcelona history to play 600 or more games | Imago

Pique's involvement with the King's League, a unique and innovative football tournament, showcases his vision for the sport's evolution. The league features unique rules, such as unlimited substitutions and fan votes, indicating Pique's willingness to experiment and bring new ideas to football.

Gerard Pique consoles Rio Ferdinand after Barcelona beat Manchester United in the Champions League final || Gettyimages
Gerard Pique consoles Rio Ferdinand after Barcelona beat Manchester United in the Champions League final || Gettyimages

Gerard Pique's decision to return to football as a coach underlines his unwavering dedication to the sport and his desire to explore new horizons. It remains to be seen where he will coach, but his return is undoubtedly a significant development in the world of football​​​​.

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