UEFA Nations League 2022 has already started but some popular names are missing from the tournament as a result of various reasons. While some will miss the tournament due to an injury, others have been left out because the manager doesn’t fancy them. One of these famous players who are missing the tournament is Gerard Pique. Fans want to know the reason as to Why Gerard Pique is not playing for Spain.
Gerard Pique decided to retire from international football after the World Cup 2018 following a World Cup qualifier against Albania in October 2016. He took the decision to retire from the Spanish national team after the 2018 World Cup over a controversy to do with his shirt sleeves.
The controversy was regarding flag colors on player’s jersey. During Spain’s 2-0 World Cup qualifier win over Albania, it was noticed that Pique’s shirt did not include the national colors at the end of the sleeves. Pique appeared to have cut a long-sleeved shirt in order to avoid wearing the trim, apparently as a sign of support for Catalan independence.
“I have tried everything, but I can’t bare this anymore, today’s issue of the sleeves is the straw that breaks the camel. They’ve managed to make me lose the excitement of coming here and although after Russia I’ll only be 31, I’ll leave.” Gerard Pique said in a statement.
Gerard Pique made his debut in 2009 and was a key part of the first team as Spain established themselves as the world’s best side. He made 102 appearances for his country. Only 13 players in history have made 100 or more appearances for the Spanish national side. Pique also guided his country to the World Cup title in 2010 and the Euro 2012 title.
Spain UEFA Nations League 2022 Squad
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), Robert Sanchez (Brighton & Hove Albion/ENG), David Raya (Brentford/ENG)
Defenders: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea/ENG), Eric Garcia, Jordi Alba (both Barcelona), Pau Torres (Villarreal), Diego Llorente (Leeds United/ENG), Hugo Guillamon (Valencia), Jose Gaya (Valencia)
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Gavi (all Barcelona), Rodri (Manchester City/ENG), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Carlos Soler (Valencia)
Forwards: Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Alvaro Morata (Atletico Madrid), Pablo Sarabia (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Yeremi Pino (Villarreal), Borja Iglesias (Real Betis), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid)
