Gerard Pique announces Spain retirement after 2018 World Cup
Gerard Pique has taken the decision to quit the Spanish national team - although not until after World Cup 2018.
He spoke to the media in the mixed zone after the game and revealed his decision, based on the criticism he has received from the media and fans during his time with Spain. The latest was when some claimed he had cut the sleeves of his shirt off for the team's 2-0 win over Albania because of Spanish colours on them - which wasn't true.
"After World Cup 2018 I will leave the Spanish national team," he said. The defender was not happy about the frequent controversy stirred up by his actions. "I had this pre-planned, it's not taken in the heat of the moment," he said. "I've always given everything on the pitch and although some have been grateful, others don't want me here."
For a long period before the World Cup Pique was booed by fans around Spain because of his desire for Catalunya to be able to vote for independence among other things.
