Barcelona defender Gerard Pique says he thrives on the controversy he generates.

Pique has made some enemies with his sporting and political stances and was frequently whistled while playing for the Spanish national team.

"Normally I'm aware of the mess that I get myself into," he said on Antena 3's 'El Hormiguero' programme.

"I take no notice and I have a good time.

"The world of football is a show.

"Everything is a farce, everything that you read is a lie.

"It's all easier than that.

"The relationships with players are fantastic.

"When we get in a mess it's because we want to, we want to add a bit of spice.

"I was affected by [criticism] a lot more when I was younger, now it passes me by."