Gerard Pique's emotional goodbye
Barcelona legend Gerard Pique was given an emotional standing ovation as he made his final Nou Camp appearance in their 2-0 La Liga win over Almeria.
He was replaced in the 84th minute and tearfully embraced all his team-mates, boss Xavi and the entire Barca bench.
After the game he gave a speech on the pitch, saying: "I was born here and I will die here."
He added: "When you get older, you realise that sometimes to love is to let go. I'm convinced that I'll be here again in the future.
"I love Barca. That's why I consider it's the right moment to go. This is not a goodbye."
The ex-Spain defender announced his decision, despite having 18 months left on his deal, and his exit will help Barca with their wage bill.
Pique won 30 trophies and made 616 appearances for Barca after joining in 2008 from Manchester United.
As well as other business interests, Pique owns FC Andorra, who play in the Spanish second tier.
Pique was also a part of Spain's 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 triumphs. With 102 caps before his international retirement in 2018, he is one of only 13 players to make 100 appearances for La Roja.
He started his senior career at Manchester United, playing 23 times and also having a loan spell with Real Zaragoza in that time.
Barcelona reportedly put Pique under pressure to leave to ease their financial issues. He was their fifth-choice centre-back this season, although has still played 10 times.
