Laporta defends Pique as Barça defender passes through tough moment
Pique has just announced his separation from long-term partner Shakira
"Don't pay attention to the news that comes out -- he is a good person"
Barcelona president Joan Laporta acknowledged that defender Gerard Pique is going through a tough moment but says he has the club's complete support.
Pique, 35, ended the season sidelined with an injury and it was recently confirmed that he has separated from his long-term partner, the Colombian singer Shakira.
"Pique's suffering," Laporta said. "For all the fame and money players have, they're people as well. He's one of the club's captain and he can still give us a lot. He is committed."
Laporta added: "He deserved the affection of all Barça supporters, don't pay attention to the news that comes out. He is a good person."
The Barça president also responded to the question about whether Pique prefers to be a footballer or a businessman: "He's chosen to keep being a player before a businessman."
