Pique laments end of an era for Spain

Gerard Pique feels that Spain’s Euro 2016 exit at the hands of Italy has signalled the end of their era of international domination.

La Roja were well beaten by an effective Italian performance in Paris, bringing down the curtain on their eight-year reign as Kings of Europe in the process.

Pique, denied a late equaliser by Gianluigi Buffon at the Stade de France, says Euro 2016 has proved that Spain’s winning formula that brought glory at Euro 2008 and 2012, as well as the 2010 World Cup, may no longer work.

“I think we have to undertake a big reflection, in terms of style and level,” the Barcelona defender said. “We don’t have the level that we had a couple of years ago.” Spain suffered a nightmare group-stage exit at the World Cup in Brazil two years ago but many expected Vicente del Bosque’s team to bounce back with a strong showing in France.

Defeat to Croatia in their final group game meant they faced Italy in the last 16 where their journey was ended abruptly by Antonio Conte’s Azzurri. Pique says they must now face the reality they are not going to be favourites going into major tournaments.

“We are a team that can win matches because of our name and our past, but we are not the best team. We are not in a position to win tournaments right now,” he added.

“It’s not only about the level of the players. Despite trying to play the same way as we have done in recent years, we weren’t as effective. “This exit could help us to go into future competitions knowing that we are no longer favourites to win.”

Italy are 4.00 to beat Germany in their quarter-final in Bordeaux while the Azzurri are 7.00 to win Euro 2016.