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#8 Gerard Pique
A rare example of a La Masia graduate who initially made a mark elsewhere, central defender Gerard Pique joined Barcelona as a 10-year old, but then moved to Manchester United prior to signing his first professional contract with the club. The Spaniard struggled in England – facing criticism for his performances in the 2007-08 season – and then made a move back to the Nou Camp for just £5m.
Despite being labelled a flop by Red Devils fans, it didn’t take long for Pique to settle in back at his boyhood club; 2008-09 saw him make 45 appearances for La Blaugrana, scoring 3 goals along the way and forming a strong defensive partnership with Carles Puyol. Barcelona won La Liga that season, also claimed the Copa del Rey, and most importantly, defeated Pique’s old club Manchester United in the final of the Champions League. It was the ultimate revenge for the defender.
Since his move back to Catalonia, Pique has basically been an ever-present in Barca’s first XI. He’s made over 500 appearances at the club, and is currently in the midst of his 12th season at the Nou Camp. He’s also one of their most decorated players, with a total of 28 major trophies to his name.
