Pique's Post-Playing Career Takes a Predictably Dramatic Turn
The former Barcelona defender's transition from pitch to boardroom hits a snag as Spanish authorities hand down six-match ban following heated exchange with referee during FC Andorra's defeat.
Gerard Pique's retirement from playing might have spared us any more of his theatrical on-pitch antics, but the Spanish defender clearly wasn't ready to give up the spotlight entirely. The former Barcelona and Spain international has managed to land himself a six-match ban and two-month suspension from all football activity, proving that you can take the player out of the game, but you apparently can't take the game out of the player.
The drama unfolded during FC Andorra's rather forgettable 1-0 defeat to Albacete last week – though it's fair to say the result became secondary once Pique decided to give referee Alonso de Ena Wolf the full benefit of his post-match wisdom. The Spanish football federation, clearly unimpressed by whatever pearls of guidance were shared, cited 'notorious acts that undermine sporting dignity' and 'minor violence toward referees' in their disciplinary ruling.
While the exact nature of the confrontation remains somewhat opaque in official terms, reports suggest Pique helpfully advised the referee to 'leave with an escort so nobody attacks you' – presumably delivered in that charming manner we've all come to know and love from his playing days. It's the sort of diplomatic intervention that would make even the most seasoned club owner wince.
FC Andorra president Ferran Vilaseca clearly felt compelled to join the festivities, earning himself a four-month suspension for his troubles. One can only imagine the boardroom conversation that led to that particular decision – though given Pique's ownership stake in the club, the lines between player, owner, and general irritant were perhaps already sufficiently blurred.
The timing couldn't be more fitting for a side currently languishing in 10th place in Spain's second division. FC Andorra's season was hardly setting the world alight before their most recognisable figure decided to add disciplinary sanctions to their list of concerns. Nothing quite says 'steady progress up the football pyramid' like your high-profile owner getting banned for referee confrontations.
For a player who built his reputation on reading the game, Pique seems to have spectacularly misread this particular situation. The Spanish federation's disciplinary committee has shown they're no more impressed by celebrity status than they would be by any other club official stepping out of line.
Still, you have to admire the consistency – Pique managed to generate headlines throughout his playing career, and retirement clearly wasn't going to change that approach to public life.