What Gerard Pique said about his shirt before sleeves cutting controversy
Many critics thought the defender's actions before the Albania game showed a lack of respect
Gerard Pique's cut-off shirt sleeves caused a lot of unnecessary controversy. The Catalan centre-back has announced his retirement from the Spanish national team after World Cup 2018 because of the constant furore around him, with this the latest incident.
Pique cut the sleeves off his shirt ahead of the Albania clash for comfort but many critics complained he was doing it because he wanted to cut the Spanish colours off in a show of disrespect.
Marca have now revealed what Pique said in the dressing room. "Fuck, these sleeves are too tight, give me scissors to cut them off".
When he said that he had no idea of the Tsunami that would follow.
Pique was angry about it and it was the final straw after various incidents which the media and fans have mistreated him in. He announced his retirement from Spain duty after the game, effective from the end of the 2018 World Cup.
"I've tried everything but I can't bear any more, today's thing with the sleeves is the final straw. I've lost the enthusiasm to come here and after Russia, I will be 31, and I will quit the national team."
