Barcelona veteran Gerard Pique has made a shocking announcement that he’d retire from Barcelona, with his contract with the club terminated suddenly.

Pique who has served the club faithfully for decades, has received massive praise from former teammate and ex-Barcelona captain Carles Puyol.

“Thanks for everything Geri, I am in shock. We have been very unfair to you, few players have defended the Barca shirt as you have done” – Puyol wrote on Instagram.

“I will always say that I was lucky and privileged to play alongside you. I love you very much, friend.”

Speaking about his sudden retirement, Pique said: “Like many of you I’ve always been a Barca fan. I was born in a football loving family of Barca fans.

“As a child I didn’t want to just become a professional footballer, I wanted to be a Culer. I’ve been thinking a lot about that kid lately.

“What little Gerard would have thought, if he had been told that all his dreams would come true. That he would make it to Barca first team. That he would win every trophy possible. That he would become European champion. And the World Champion. That he would play alongside the best players in history. That he would become one of the team’s captains. That he would make friends for life.

“I was 10 when I joined Barca. I left and came back. Football has given me everything. Barca have given me everything. You, Culers, have given me everything. And now that all the that kid’s dreams have come true, I want to tell you that I’ve decided that now is the time to bring this journey to an end.

“I’ve always said there would be no other team after Barca. And that’s how it will be. I will become a regular fan supporting the team. I will pass my love to Barca to my children. Just like my parents did. And you know me, sooner or later I’ll be back.”