FOOTBALL: Barca couldn't win Premier League, because of Stoke, says Pique

Barcelona may be a giant in the best league in Europe, but Gerard Pique says the five-time European champions wouldn't be able to win the Premier League - because of teams like Stoke.

In an interview with The Telegraph, the defender - who spent four seasons with Manchester United - says the Catalan side would struggle against the Potters.

“I think that if Barcelona or Real Madrid goes to the Premier League then the first year of playing there, there is no chance of winning it,” he says.

"Because if you go to Stoke, or other types of teams, then it will be really tough. It’s a debate – we could spend hours on it. If Manchester United or Chelsea go to Spain then the same. No chance to win the league.”

So Lionel Messi and Neymar et al really wouldn't be able to do it on a cold rainy night in Stoke - well straight away at least.