Gerard Pique unrepentant

London : Gerard Pique says he does not regret his comments mocking Barcelona’s rivals Espanyol after eliminating them from the King’s Cup last week, stoking up the rivalry ahead of another visit to Cornella on Sunday in La Liga. Barcelona beat Espanyol 2-0 at the Nou Camp last Thursday and Pique repeatedly referred to the visitors as “Espanyol de Cornella” when speaking to the media afterwards.

The defender was referring to the location of the club’s RCDE Stadium, where Espanyol moved in 2009 after playing at the Olympic Stadium in the city of Barcelona. Espanyol made a formal complaint about Pique’s comments and the Spanish football federation’s anti-violence committee are investigating the matter.

However, speaking to reporters after signing his new Barcelona contract which keeps him at the club until 2022, Pique played down on his comments.

“I don’t regret it (making his comments) and I don’t think today’s the day’s the day to talk about it. On Sunday we will play there and in the mixed zone I will give you the headlines if you want,” said Pique.