Things haven't been great for Gerard Pique lately, with his separation from long-term partner Shakira largely dominating the headlines.
As well, though, the Barcelona defender has had his place in the team at the Camp Nou questioned, with some suggesting that Jules Kounde's arrival from Sevilla could demote him to the bench.
But club legend Carles Puyol, and a former teammate of Pique's, has jumped to the defence of the current Blaugrana defender.
"I've been lucky enough to share the dressing room with so many players and Gerard is, without a doubt, one of the most competitive," Puyol said.
"Last year he was one of the best players at the club, and played a lot of games in a lot of discomfort, forcing himself though problems to help the team.
"If he's at 100 percent next year, there are very few defenders in the world who can match his level of performance.
"This team is getting stronger and this competition will improve everybody. It's a positive for the team."
havoc007
76
I really don't know why some of our fans want pique out, he wants to see out his contract and we as fans should support him, it's the least we can do for our club legend 💜🤎
BISHOP0091
50
He’s actually one of the best CB ever. He’s only lacking speed now and we know it’s because of age Let his contract run till the end He’s loyal to the core
Abbajr20
18
Even if they don't like him, he's our best center back
Tuwademsz
11
He is one of the best let's value him and support him, in time like this, bcos he cared and sacrifice for barca in the past
coaacdeln
10
Pique is one of the legends of Barca, let's not look down on him now, he needs our support at this trying period. Barca4life.