Gerard Pique AXED by Barcelona as boss Xavi tells old team-mate to leave just days before defender’s split from Shakira
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GERARD PIQUE has reportedly been told by Barcelona manager Xavi that he is no longer wanted at the club.
The 35-year-old recently split with long-term partner Shakira after claims the footballer had been unfaithful.
And Spanish outlet are now reporting that Pique has also been ditched by his club.
They say the Barca legend was told two weeks ago he is no longer wanted due to his "unprofessional conduct off the field" and "deteriorating physical condition".
Manager Xavi is also thought to have told Pique he is not in his plans.
What's more, the Catalan giants' coach has an issue with the defender's business interests off the pitch.
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Xavi and Pique were team-mates for a number of years during the club's greatest ever period where they won three Champions Leagues in six years.
But that has not swayed the manager's opinion of the Spanish centre-back's current ability.
Barcelona owe Pique £34.3million in deferred payments but the club are hoping the player will leave in a dignified manner.
The cash-strapped Catalans even reportedly want Pique to write off some of the money he is owed.
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Pique's former central defensive partner Carles Puyol left Barcelona in 2014 when he still had two years left on his contract.
And the LaLiga side are keen for Pique to amicably depart in a similar manner - with his current deal not expiring until 2024.
However, there is no sign he is willing to do so - with reports he is up for staying and regaining his form.
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But he may be forced to one side as Barca look to bring in a host of defenders this summer.
They are set to sign Chelsea centre-back Andreas Christensen, with fellow Blues man Cesar Azpilicueta and Sevilla's Jules Kounde also being linked.