Gil Manzano, a Spanish football referee, has explained why he dismissed unused substitute Gerard Pique from the game between Barcelona and Osasuna.
The Barca center-back allegedly cursed at him during the halftime break and received a straight red card as a result, according to the match official.
On Tuesday night, Barcelona made the trip to Osasuna for their La Liga matchup from day fourteen (November 8). With a goal down in the sixth minute and their star player Robert Lewandowski being dismissed for a foul on David Garcia, the Blaugrana struggled away from home.
The team led by Xavi eventually found their footing and defeated a challenging foe 2-1. David Garcia scored Osasuna’s opener, while Pedri and Raphinha found the back of the net for Barcelona.
At halftime, Pique, who was dissatisfied with Manzano’s officiating, gave him a stern talking to and was given a straight red for it.
Manzano disclosed what the legendary Barca player said to receive a red card in his final game of his career after the game. According to Manzano (via Mundo Deportivo):
“Once the first half was over, being already inside the locker room tunnel, for addressing [Pique addressed him] me in the following terms: ‘Have you seen what corner you gave us? You are the referee who has screwed us the most by far’.”
Manzano informed the delegate about Pique’s dismissal, but that did not stop Pique from directing even more insults at the referee.
The match official testified:
“Once the Club Delegate was informed of the expulsion of this player, he [Pique] continued to repeat the same expressions described in the Expulsions section, having to be brought into his locker room by staff from his club, while he was on his way to me in the following terms: ‘It’s a f****** shame, I s*** on your f****** mother!’.”
Pique has played 616 games for Barcelona in his career, scoring 53 times. He has won eight La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies with the club, amongst other honors.
