UEFA Champions League Final: Rio Ferdinand Has No Grudge for Gerard Pique's Exit

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Let the lovefest between Barcelona and Manchester United continue.

As the highly-anticipated UEFA Champions League final approaches, there haven't been any jabs between the Spanish and English giants through the media. No guarantees, no disparaging remarks, nada.

In fact, both teams have made an effort to heap praise upon each other whenever given the opportunity. It could be a classic case of not wanting to poke the bear, but it hasn't stopped either side from lavishing each other with complimentary remarks.

The latest to do the dance was Manchester United stalwart defender Rio Ferdinand. Ferdinand, the onetime teammate of Barcelona's Gerard Pique, praised the Spaniard and figured that his ascent was prompted when the oft-used youngster left Manchester United for Barcelona in 2008.

Pique has since helped anchor Barcelona's back line along with Carles Puyol. Ferdinand told reporters:

“Everyone knew Pique had talent. But English football is different. If you asked him if he could have been where he is now if he had been playing for Manchester United, he would probably have said 'I don't know'.
"When you get a chance, you have to take it. He has gone to Spain, is winning trophies with Barcelona and is doing fantastically well, so you have to give him credit for that."

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