Fan footage of Gerard Pique's warm-up during Barcelona's clash against Villarreal has been labelled as "embarrassing" and "shameless" by supporters online.
The 35-year-old defender was booed and whistled by some of his own supporters on Thursday night as he replaced Jules Kounde in the 75th minute, while another section of the Nou Camp cheered his every touch.
Barca went on to secure all three points against Unai Emery's side thanks to goals from Robert Lewandowski [2] and Ansu Fati, but one of the main talking points on social media wasn't the result – it was Pique's effort. Or lack of it.
Advert
A fan from the stands decided to film Pique as he warmed up on the touchline. Twitter user CarraUtgés, who posted the footage, labelled his actions as "unacceptable". You can see that footage below.
Here's how social media reacted to the footage. One fan said: "This REALLY pissed me off! Is this a professional player?" while another commented: "What kind of a warm up is this?"
A third wrote: "These guys disrespect the player and are surprised he has no motivation."
Advert
After the full-time whistle, Barcelona manager Xavi was asked about the whistling of Pique during the Villarreal clash.
He said: "In pre-season, I asked for unity. It's a moment to be united: the squad, the staff, the board, the fans, media.
"Whether he plays or not, the only thing I ask from Pique is that he is an example in the dressing room -- and he is a gleaming example.
"I am saying this because he deserves it. He has never shown a bad attitude [when not playing]. He is an example as a captain and the fans should know that."
Advert
In other news, former Manchester United defender Pique could be made to walk out at the Camp Nou wearing a shirt with his ex-girlfriend's name on it.
According to reports in Spain, Shakira is set be the next in line to benefit from Barcelona’s sponsorship with the music streaming platform, Spotify.
The Camp Nou club wore the OVO owl logo – a clothing brand founded by popular Canadian rapper Drake – on their shirts for Sunday’s El Clasico clash with Real Madrid.
Advert
And pop artist Shakira, who was in a relationship with Pique for 11 years – will soon release her new single titled ‘Monotonia’ featuring Puerto Rican singer Ozuna.
Back in June this year, Gerard Pique and Shakira confirmed their separation after 11 years in a public statement.
Topics: Gerard Pique, Barcelona, Villarreal, La Liga
Jack Kenmare