Xavi does not count on Gerard Pique as a starter for next season

A recent report from Mundo Deportivo has offered a detailed update on the future of Gerard Pique, which is clouded, to say the least.

The defender, who still has a contract at Camp Nou until 2024, does not enter Xavi’s plans as a regular starter for next season.

The player and the coach had met face to face a couple of weeks ago, where Xavi had informed Pique that he does not see him as a first-team regular next season.

The Barcelona boss had cited his injury problems and a high salary as potential problem areas for the club, especially in the midst of an economic crisis. It was thus suggested at the time that Barça would be keen on offloading Pique in the summer.

However, it appears the defender has informed Xavi of his desire to remain at Camp Nou. He wants to fight for his place on the first-team next season and prove him wrong.

The veteran defender, currently the highest-paid player in the Barcelona camp, is also willing to lower his wages in order to help Barcelona sign newer players in the market.

In an awkward turn of fate, Barça may use the opportunity to complete the signing of Andreas Christensen. The Dane is likely to be brought in as a long-term solution to the club’s defensive problem and a potential replacement for Pique.

From a sporting perspective, Pique may have to compete with Eric Garcia for a place in the first team next season. Given the former’s lack of consistency, especially in big matches, one would imagine it might not be difficult for Pique to gain prominence in the first team.

However, the arrival of Christensen could alter the prospects, especially if the Dane features on the left side of the defence. Barcelona, though, ideally want to sign a new player who is more capable of operating in that position.

The likes of Jules Kounde and Kalidou Koulibaly have been mooted as potential defensive targets for Barcelona ahead of the new season, though the club have its task cut out if they are to afford any of the two established central defenders this summer.