Leo Messi shows there is clearly bad blood between him and Gerard Pique

It seems like it is no longer a public secret that Barcelona legends Gerard Pique and Lionel Messi are no longer friends at all. The two used to be very close friends as they shared the same facilities for over a decade.

Their relationship however seemed to deteriorate a few years ago after Messi’s exit from Barcelona in a very shocking and surprising way. According to reports, the former Manchester United defender is said to have persuaded the La Liga champions to part ways with their record goal scorer.

The 7 time Ballon D’or winner thought he was staying in Catalonia after accepting a massive pay cut. However, he was informed very late that the club couldn’t keep him due to the Financial Fair Play rules and therefore had to let him go.

Sources have it that Pique was among those who convinced the then president  Bartomeu that booting Messi would be a good thing for the club. Pique was even absent from Barcelona’s title celebrations this week despite being invited.

The Spanish defender announced his retirement from football back in November. He still had 18 months on his contract but it’s said that he fell out with Xavi over lack of playing time.

Since Pique’s retirement, two more Barca legends have announced their pending exit from the Spanish giants. These are Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. The Argentine has wished all these a happy next chapter but has never acknowledged Pique’s retirement.

“You were more than a mate, a true accomplice on the court… And how nice it is to also be able to enjoy how well we get along personally. You already know I always wish you the best and also your family, may your new stage continue to bring you many successes and joys. Thanks for everything, Jordi. A Big Hug!”

It is also said that Messi’s wife Antonella Rocuzzo didn’t get along well with Pique’s wife singer Shakira. This is because the defender, who seems to be a serial cheater, dumped Antonella’s friend for Shakira.