Gerard Pique backs former teammate to replace Xavi Hernandez at Barcelona

Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has backed Barcelona Atletic coach Rafael Marquez to manage the senior side one day.

Marquez was appointed last season as manager of the B team at Barcelona, and led them to the playoffs, finishing in 4th position, and losing their play-off semi-final to Real Madrid Castilla 3-2 on aggregate.

This season has not been quite as successful as of yet, with Marquez’s side winning just four of their nine games, sitting eighth – albeit with a large squad turnover.

Speaking to ESPN in Mexico, following his viral fall, Pique explained that he thought Marquez was sufficiently prepared.

“Yes, for sure.”

“Rafa is more than ready for a range of things [such as coaching Barcelona] because of the attitude he has, his knowledge of the game and his experience.”

“He’s in a learning process as a coach right now and I am sure that in the future we will see him on a bench in LaLiga. We will see if that is with Barca or another team, but he’s preparing excellently.”

Marquez and Pique coincided for two seasons at Barcelona as teammates, with the latter eventually replacing the Mexican in Pep Guardiola’s historic side. Marquez has previously occupied roles as Atlas’ Sporting Director and then as a youth coach at Real Alcala in near Madrid before returning to the Blaugrana.