Barcelona: Barcelona started their La Liga campaign in the post-Lionel Messi era with a thumping 4-2 win at home over Real Sociedad at the Camp Nou on Monday. This was also the first time crowd returned to the stadium since the COVID-19 outbreak last year.
After a drama-filled last week at the Catalan club, that saw Messi leave Spain after 21 years, Barcelona were left with a humongous task but they started on a winning note. Gerard Pique, whose noble gesture saw the club accommodate new signings, headed home to give them the lead on 19 minutes.
Just a day ago, Pique agreed to lower his wage so that Barcelona could register the likes of Memphis Depay, Eric Garcia and Rey Manaj. Martin Braithwaite doubled the lead with yet another header in the first half before completing his brace on 59 minutes.
A good start. pic.twitter.com/YRUWPuPeji
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 15, 2021
Julen Lobete pulled one back for the visitors on 82 minutes, as Sociedad mounted a rally with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring a stunning freekick just three minutes later. Barcelona somehow held on to their lead, although it was Sergi Roberto who sealed the game with a late goal.
“I was born here, I grew up here, I’ve lived almost all my life here in Barcelona kissing the badge? It was what I had to do. I want to point out that all the captains will do the same, I did it faster but they’ll do it as well,” Pique said during the post-match interview.
“Reducing my salary was my duty and I wanted to give something to the club that I love. the other captains will do it now. The three captains, Busquets, Alba and Roberto are doing their best to close an agreement with the club. The club has asked for an effort and they will do it. I’m proud of all of them,” he added.
