Pique explained the famopus photo. Twitter/3gerardpique

'When I said Neymar was staying I knew he wasn't, I do not feel deceived'

In the press conference prior to the Spanish Supercopa clash against Real Madrid, Gerard Pique spoke about his infamous message alongside Neymar.

'I do not feel deceived by Neymar. The day I said "he's staying" I 100 per cent knew he was leaving. He got angry at me, but we made up', Pique revealed. The defender continued to give the details of his coy to retain the Brazilian.

'I used my social networks to help this club retain a player of unique talent. It was difficult, but I tried to help my club. I am sure he has his reasons, be them financial or about sport. We cannot judge. He has given us a lot in four years. And, though I don't know how much he cost, I am sure it was less than 222 million', Pique added.

The Spain international does not resent the new PSG man. 'I am not disappointed and he did not rock the boat to leave, he did so by playing the 90 minutes until the very end. As Dani Alves said, when he came to Messi's wedding he already knew he was leaving. We tried to convince him without success', he pointed out.

Pique believes it is a great loss for Barcelona. 'He has a special talent, with a unique dribble. There is no replacement available on the market, we have to replace him by being strong'.

'Neymar's is an isolated case with many factors that come into play. And many players they are saying want to come. I do not think Barcelona has lost its allure', Pique stated.

The centre-back also had words for the media: 'Yes, you understood me. When I posted the tweet we both knew he was leaving. I wanted to influence if his decision wasn't final. I use social media the way I like, in this case to help Barcelona. It didn't work out, but I am responsible for the covers of the press'.