Gerard Pique: Is Shakira the Reason for Barcelona Star's Poor Play?

Gerard Pique's relationship with singer Shakira is having a profound effect on his commitment to the Barcelona football club.

According to a report from the Inquisitr, the club is none too thrilled with Pique's attitude and behavior over the past few weeks, and manager Pep Guardiola seems to think that Shakira is at the center of his problems.

The papers say that friction first occurred when Pique posted pictures of himself vacationing with the pop star. He was seen in the photos white-water rafting, an activity forbidden by his high-flying club. Supposedly Pique has been late to training more than once this season, and has broken other team rules.

Guardiola is still mulling over whether to stay with Barcelona, but newspaper reports have suggested hell only stay if Pique goes.

Pique has been a stalwart for Barca since coming over from Manchester United in 2008. He is one of the club's most popular and high-profile players. However, he has taken on less of a role lately because of his perceived lack of interest in the club and sport.

Who Is To Blame For Pique's Poor Play?

Who Is To Blame For Pique's Poor Play?

• Shakira

• Pep Guardiola

• Gerard Pique

• Total votes: 225

Shakira is innocent in this whole situation. Sure, she is wining and dining Pique. However, they have been together for a year, and he is just now starting to flake out on the club.

Besides, Pique has to take some responsibility for his actions. He is the one that has to show up on time, give the effort needed to play at a high level and set an example for the players around him.

If he is choosing not to do that because he wants to spend all his time with his! girlfri end, that is his choice. The club would be perfectly within its rights to get rid of him, if it so desired.

The report says that is unlikely because Pique is still young and has an accomplished resume already.

However, Pique needs to accept that he hasn't been himself lately, and work to change his attitude and priorities before he becomes a bigger problem than he is worth.