Pique defends stance backing Catalan independence

Spain and Barcelona defender Gerard Pique had made his stand clear over Catalan independence last week and, on Saturday, had to respond to questions over comments he made backing a possible referendum on independence for Catalonia.

Denying that his views conflicted with him representing Spain, Pique reasoned: "I am only defending rights for Catalans, we are talking about a question of democracy which I think is important to defend. It is something totally different to me playing football and I always enjoy being with the national team where I give everything.”

"I express my opinions because I am a footballer and a citizen. When I feel I should express myself I will and this doesn’t affect my profession," said Pique.

Image: Gerard Pique

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