Barcelona: The best will play - Xavi sends a message to Pique after Kounde's arrival

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has sent a clear message to veteran defender Gerard Pique following the arrival of Jules Kounde.

Pique has always been present in the Barcelona defense since winning his place in 2009, 13 years ago.

Recall that Barcelona recently signed Kounde from Sevilla after beating strong competition from Chelsea.

Last season, Pique was again among Barcelona's best defenders and played through injuries for several months.

But with his off-pitch activities garnering a lot of attention following his recent split from longtime partner Shakira, questions have arisen over his commitment ahead of the upcoming 2022/23 season.

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Asked about Pique ahead of Barcelona's friendly with the New York Red Bulls on Sunday, Xavi said, as quoted by Sport: "Like everyone, everyone starts from scratch, everyone will compete for a position. Whoever who plays better will play more.”

"The more solutions I have as a manager the better, we are a great team, the club is making a big effort to be competitive and we have to show it. My goal is to bring Barcelona back to the top of the world.”

Meanwhile, apart from Pique and Kounde, Barcelona now also have Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia to compete for the centre-back positions.