Rio Ferdinand, a former player for Manchester United, has acknowledged that he was instrumental in elevating Gerrard Pique to greatness.

In his heartfelt tribute to Pique, Ferdinand said this as the Barcelona defender played the final game of his career on Saturday against Almeria.

Between 2004 and 2008, Pique made 23 appearances for Manchester United.

The Premier League powerhouses received two goals and an assist from the Spaniard.

Pique announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 35 on Thursday, sending a complete shockwave through the entire community.

On Saturday, when Barcelona defeated Almeria 2-0 at Camp Nou, the 2010 World Cup winner made his final outing in a Barcelona jersey.

Ferdinand, who previously partnered Pique at the center of Manchester United's defense, expressed his admiration for the center-back in response to the development.

Ferdinand wrote on his Instagram story: “Gerard My man, what a career! Many people don’t know, but I actually played one of the biggest parts in making you. "The fact that myself and Nemanja were playing at Manchester United, you never had a chance... so you had to move on to Barcelona!”

He added, “That was my part in catapulting you to greatness! But seriously, when you went to Barcelona, I don’t even think that you could imagine that your career would go as crazy as it went – trophies galore with both club and country. One thing you had to do when you left was mature, and you did this so quickly because your intelligence took over. a mainstay in both teams that many consider the best teams ever!”

“Respect my man for a truly great career." "PS: – President of Barca is watching 7 years...”