Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola considers Gerard Pique as the key player of the Catalans despite his not featuring in the game squad on Tuesday’s 3-1 victory against Bayer Leverkusen for a Champions League clash.

The talented centre-back player was not featured during the Barcelona’s first leg round of 16 clash against the Germans. However, Guardiola pointed his omission was not due to his comparatively disappointing performances during recent weeks.

Rather, Guardiola stated Pique was given rest prior to this weekend’s clash in Primera Division against Valencia at home. He feels his team can not lose Pique at any costs and wants him for the crucial contest.

Guardiola remarked, “On Saturday we don’t have Mascherano or Alves, so I couldn’t afford to lose Gerard.”

He added, “I called up Bartra because we needed him and I wanted him to be on the bench. Pique knows that I have lots of love for him. For us, he’s untouchable.”

The Sunday’s clash between Valencia and Barcelona would be held at Nou Camp. This contest is keenly awaited by numerous soccer fans of both these  sides.