Ronald Koeman hits out at Gerard Pique over comments as investigation launched

Ronald Koeman admits it is "not his problem" if Gerard Pique is banned following comments he made citing refereeing bias towards Real Madrid.

The Barcelona defender suggested that match officials gave Los Blancos preferential treatment given they were from that part of the country.

His comments are under investigation for potentially breaking organisation rules on honouring impartial respect for referees.

The Spaniard said: "The other day a former referee said that 85 per cent of the referees are from Madrid.

“How are they not going to whistle in favour of Madrid? Even unconsciously, how are they not going to give more for one side than the other?

“I respect the professionalism of the referees and I know they try to do their best job, but when a moment of doubt comes…"

Should Pique be found guilty he could face a lengthy ban which would leave Koeman and Barcelona short of options.

And the Dutchman has advised his player that such actions should be done while maintaining a level of respect to prevent any backlash.

"It's my problem if they sanction because of these statements, but he has enough experience to say what he wants," he said.

"But you have to take care because, [even] with little [pushback], they can make you a problem.

"If you have to criticize, do so with respect so they can't do anything to you."

Barcelona look to be out of the title race in La Liga with Atletico Madrid in pole position.

The Catalans have won nine of their past 11 in the league as they rise up the table and face PSG in the Champions League.

They host the Parisians next week, but Koeman refused to look too far ahead.

"Tomorrow's game is more important than PSG [right now]," he added. "We're going game by game and it's important to win before Tuesday's game."