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Gerard Pique Told He Isn't Needed At Barcelona

Gerard Pique has sensationally been told by Xavi - the Barcelona manager and his former team-mate - that he is no longer part of his plans and can leave the Nou Camp. 

It has been revealed that the Spanish international was told he has no future at the club two weeks ago due to unprofessional conduct off the field and his deteriorating physical condition. 

The shock revelation from Xavi came just days before Pique's high-profile split from Colombian singer Shakira came to light.

Spanish media outlet SPORT also claims that Xavi's primary issue with the player is his numerous business interests off the field, and it is believed that Pique is owed approximately €40million (£34.3m) by Barca for deferred payments.

Xavi reportedly spoke to his former team-mate directly and made it clear that Pique is not going to be included in his plans for the future. 

While Xavi doesn't question Pique's ability to perform at the highest level, it is thought he has concerns about the veteran defender's ability to cope with the hectic schedule within modern football. 

The club hope that Pique will make a dignified exit this summer and even let them off some of the £34.3m that they owe him, just like legendary figure Carles Puyol did when he left in 2014. 

Puyol left the Catalan giants in 2014 after 15 seasons with the first-team with two years still on his contract, like his former defensive partner, as a result of his body being unable to handle the demands of professional football.