Gerard Pique Is Considering Coming Out Of International Retirement To Play For Spain At World Cup

Gerard Pique is believed to be considering a shock return to Spain's national team for the World Cup in Qatar, say reports.

Back in August 2018, following a disappointing World Cup campaign in Russia, the Barcelona centre-back confirmed he was stepping down from international duty to concentrate on club football.

"I have had a really good time, with a European Championship and a World Cup, but that story is at an end," he told reporters ahead of Barcelona's Supercopa clash with Sevilla. "I have told this to Luis Enrique." 

Even before the 2018 World Cup, former Manchester United defender Pique said it would "make sense" to leave La Roja after the tournament in Russia.

"It has been a wonderful time and I have experienced amazing things," he said. "But sometimes you have to end cycles and you have to do that in the right fashion."

But with just seven months to go until the World Cup kicks off in Qatar, an "unexpected" scenario is playing out involving Pique and a possible return to the national team.

Spanish publication El Mundo claim Pique has not 'fully' decided whether he will return to the international fold but if nothing changes, he will make himself available to be selected.

The report goes on say is it 'unknown' as to what current Spain manager Luis Enrique will do if faced with the possibility of calling up Pique – a player he respects.

But the experienced centre-back would bring plenty to the table if he was to return. The 35-year-old has been key to Barcelona's resurgence in recent weeks under Xavi, producing a number of solid, consistent performances at the back.

Luis Enrique confirmed in a recent interview that he will manage Spain at this year's World Cup in Qatar, despite rumours linking him with the Manchester United job.

He did, however, say "we will see" in regards to his future after the tournament.

"I will be in Qatar with Spain because I have given my word and there is nothing that makes me more excited than representing my country in the World Cup. After that, we will see," Enrique said.

"And even more so with this national team and with this federation. I can say it louder, but not more clearly. I’m where I want to be."

Featured Image Credit: Alamy

Topics: Spain, Gerard Pique, Football World Cup, Luis Enrique

Jack Kenmare

Senior Journalist at SPORTbible with a passion for long-form journalism. Almost 10 years’ experience across online and print.

@jackkenmare_