Pique bowing out after Barcelona v Almeria

The classy centre-back is hanging up his boots after Barcelona play Almeria at the Nou Camp on Saturday night, following a trophy-laden second spell with the Catalan giants.

The 35-year-old initially left his boyhood club for United in 2004, and was part of the squad that won the Premier League and Champions League in 2007/08.

After making his debut against Crewe Alexandra in the League Cup, he made 23 appearances for the Reds in total, scoring twice, before heading back to La Liga in the summer of 2008.

Pique has won over 30 trophies during his career, including eight domestic title wins and three Champions League triumphs - two of the latter were with Barcelona at the expense of Sir Alex Ferguson's United in the final.

"I've always said that there would not be any other team after Barca," said Pique. "And that's how it will be.

"Football has given me everything. Barca has given me everything. You, culers [the fans], have given me everything and now that all that kid's dreams have come true, I want to tell you I have decided that now is the time to bring this journey to its end."

There has been speculation the club legend could return to Barcelona in some capacity further down the line.

"You know me," he added. "Sooner or later, I will be back. I'll see you at the Nou Camp. Long live Barca, always!"

All at United would like to wish Gerard well in his retirement.