Barcelona captain could be forced to retire at the end of next season due to injuries – report | OneFootball

Gerard Pique has enjoyed an illustrious career at Barcelona and will go down as one of the most successful defenders of the modern era in football.

A product of the La Masia setup, the centre-back left Barça for Manchester United at a very young age, only to return in 2008 and write himself in the annals of the club’s history.

At 35, Pique, who is one of the club captains, continues to be a vital component of the team and has put his best foot forward whenever on the pitch this season. The former Spanish international has featured 40 times in all competitions this term, even scoring three goals.

However, it seems like injuries are starting to catch up with the veteran centre-back.

Pique has been plagued by chronic injuries to his adductor in recent months, but the seasoned campaigner continued to play through the pain to help the team out. However, earlier this month, he was ruled out for the rest of the season, with his situation not improving.

And now, Diario AS is reporting that Pique’s injury issue is such that it cannot be resolved 100% and can keep worsening or stagnate at best. As a result, there are serious question marks being raised over his ability to continue playing at the highest level.

The report states that, in the best-case scenario, the upcoming campaign could end up being the Spaniard’s final one as he could be forced into retirement due to the injury.

Barcelona will have a conversation with the veteran star in the summer to assess his situation and his thoughts about his continuity for the upcoming campaign. Even if he wishes to play, it remains to be seen to what extent he can be involved.

But it is feared that in any case, the 2022/23 season could end up as the last chapter in a glorious career for the Barcelona icon.