Gerard Pique wanted to leave Barcelona when Pep Guardiola was boss and desired a return to Manchester United, his former partner Shakira has claimed.
Pique confirmed his retirement from football in November ahead of last season’s World Cup break – a decision that will reportedly saved Barca £46million, due to a combination of his high wage packet and deferred salary payments over recent years.
Pique’s retirement announcement followed claims that the defender had a falling out with Barca boss Xavi over a lack of playing time and a leak of the player's contract at the club by Spanish media outlet El Mundo.
