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Barcelona icon Gerard Pique has admitted Real Madrid are a great club despite the rivalry between the two La Liga giants in El Clásico.
The Spaniard has surprisingly paid tribute to Los Blancos despite the historic rift between the two legendary Spanish clubs. He said (via Madrid Xtra):
Despite the rivalry, Real Madrid is a great club.
Pique’s statements come after a season in which he faced Barcelona and Madrid on five occasions across various competitions. The Blaugrana have won three of their five El Clásico matches last season, including a 3-1 victory in the Supercopa de Espana final. The Catalan giants also beat Los Merengues in the title race, winning their first La Liga title since 2019.
The rivalry dates back to 1902 and has grown to be one of, if not the, greatest rivalries in sports. Not only are football reasons behind the rivalry, but cultural and political themes as well.
Barcelona and Real Madrid are two of the best clubs in the history of Europe. Los Blancos occupies the top of the Forbes list of the most valuable clubs in the world, with a value of $ 6.07 billion, while Barcelona ranks third with a value of $ 5.51 billion.
Pique knows what El Clásico rivalries are all about, having played in 42 of them during his illustrious career. The Blaugrana legend has been the winner 19 times, while losing 13 times.
The Spaniard retired last November, but is clearly a fan of the current Madrid at Carlo Ancelotti’s disposal. They won the Copa del Rey last season and have already made their move in the summer transfer window.
Real Madrid signed Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund for 103 million euros ($112 million), the second most expensive deal in history. It is clear that they are looking to avenge the title collapse against Barcelona next season.
Arda Guler chooses Real Madrid over Barcelona
Real Madrid reportedly pursued the signing of Bellingham by luring Turkish great Arda Guler to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims the Fenerbahçe striker has joined Los Blancos for a €20m fixed fee with a 20% sell-on clause and extras in the package.
Guler was on Barcelona’s radar but ignored the chance to join the La Liga champions, opting instead for their El Clásico rival. It was a blow for Xavi as the Turkish teen was one of the most sought after in Europe.
The 18-year-old scored six goals and provided seven assists in 35 appearances across all competitions this past season. He has been compared to Barcelona legend Lionel Messi for his talent on the ball and his dribbling skills.
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