PIQUE BACKS REAL

The former Manchester United defender Gerard Pique has said that he wants to see his former club beat Barcelona’s archrivals Real Madrid in the last 16 stage of the Champions league.

After coming through the ranks at Barcelona, Pique spent a few years at Old Trafford before rejoining Barcelona a few years ago. He has transformed himself into one of the best defenders in the world, who has also been hugely successful as well. His former club Manchester United will be taking on Real Madrid in the last 16 stage of the Champions League. The two opponents will be meeting each other for the first time in more than a decade.

The first leg will be at the Santiago Bernabeu, while the second leg will take place at Old Trafford giving a slight edge for the Premier league club. The Spanish international has revealed that he has spoken with his former United teammate Rio Ferdinand, who has said that the mood is positive within the Premier league club. Madrid will be shifting their entire focus on the Champions League after the poor form in the league has lifted them 16 points adrift of leaders Barcelona. Madrid are also chasing the elusive 10th European trophy.

“Because of my own past, I would like United to go through. I have spoken with Ferdinand, and things are very good in their dressing-room – although Madrid are also in great form. We have a very complete team. A few players who do not usually enjoy a lot of minutes [on the pitch] got to play, and they proved that they are at a good level. This helps us be relaxed,” said the Barcelona defender about the Champions League match and the reasons for their brilliant form in the league this season. Barcelona have a 12 point advantage over second placed Atletico Madrid.