La Liga: Gerard Pique tipped for Barca presidency

La Liga president Javier Tebas has lauded Gerard Pique and stated that once he retires, he will be an outstanding president of Barcelona.

Pique’s brilliant playing career will come to an end after Barcelona’s match against Almeria on November 5, and he will retire as one of the best defenders of all time.

The 35-year-old, who was born in Barcelona and rose through the ranks at La Masia, has made no secret of his desire to join the club’s board of directors in the future. He also has extensive knowledge of the club.

Speaking to Spanish radio station COPE, Tebas was complimentary of Pique: “I have no doubt,” he responded when asked if he could become Barcelona president one day, adding: “He has three qualities to become Barcelona president. He has been at the club for 25 years. He knows the world of football as a player, and he knows the industry of football and sports as a businessman.”

“He knows they are very different facets. He’s had experience of decision making as a businessman, with his success and failures, and he can become a great president of Barcelona.

“I believe he can. I believe he has the capacity to do so.”

Along with his playing career, Pique has recently carved out a successful entrepreneurial career. He co-founded the sports media and investment firm Kosmos Holding and used that to acquire FC Andorra, who now play in the Spanish second division.

Pique has ties to La Blaugrana through his grandfather, who was a board member of the organisation.