Pique addresses fans after Barcelona stars jeered following Lionel Messi exit

Gerard Pique has claimed “whistles don’t help” after a number of Barcelona stars were jeered following Lionel Messi’s shock exit.

Pique defended team-mate Samuel Umtiti, who was the victim of whistles from the home crowd during their 3-0 win against Juventus in the Joan Gamper Trophy.

Barcelona won the trophy thanks to goals from new signing Memphis Depay, Danish forward Martin Braithwaite and Riqui Puig.

"It is a very complicated situation. People have every right to express themselves, but also if we were in their situation, there would be many who would try to fight what is their turn and for what they have signed,” said Pique.

“I understand that people express themselves, but I would tell them that we all row together. Whistles don't help, no matter how disappointed people are.”

When asked about Messi’s departure, Pique admitted the club would not be the same without the Argentine star.

“It is not one of the best days, you know that one day it has to happen. Life goes on and people want to watch football and enjoy the team.

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"Today we gave him a good show and we really want to do it well. It is clear that at the talent level we will not be the same.”

The French international has been linked with a move away from the Camp Nou this summer in order to ease the club’s financial pressures.

According to Goal, Barcelona offered to release both Umtiti and Miralem Pjanic from their current deals in July, in a desperate attempt to reduce the club’s wage bill.

Umtiti joined the Catalan giants from French side Lyon in 2016 for a reported fee of €25million.

The 27-year-old has been capped 31 times by France, where he has helped them win the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Umtiti’s current deal runs until 2023, but it is unclear whether the central defender will see out his contract or move elsewhere.

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