Barcelona coach Xavi has paid tribute to Gerard Pique after he announced his planned retirement today.

Xavi discussed Pique at his LaLiga presser for their clash with Almeria.

He said, “We focus on tomorrow's game to win the three points, to put a little more pressure on Madrid. And conditioned, of course, by Gerard's dismissal. He deserves all the praise from Barcelona fans. The career that he has done. He has decided to put an end to his career. I understand the adverse circumstances. He feels less important, less useful, and it is normal to take this step aside.

"He demonstrates spectacular greatness by stepping to the side. He deserves all the praise and that Barcelona fans honour him for what he is, a club legend. For tomorrow it is an extra motivation. Let the people cheer for Gerard, they applaud him. Because he deserves everything for this extraordinary career. We have to try to make it a great day for the club. Without him Barça loses leadership, commitment. He is one of the best centre-backs in the history of this sport.

“I don't know if I have been fair but I have been sincere and honest. He has been an example but I was honest with him and the circumstances have marked that he has decided to put an end to it. I am left with the feeling that he has pulled the car when it has touched him. He is a winner and will continue to be wherever he goes.

“I like the virtues better. He is brave, competitive, winner. He has no complexes or fears. Intelligent. He has a higher than normal intellectual capacity. He has been a good teammate, a good captain since I've been here. I have nothing to reproach him for. There is simply a football issue. It hasn't been anything personal, just football."