Barcelona centre-back Gerard Pique has described Carlos Puyol as his "guardian angel" in a tribute to the long-serving defender.

Puyol announced on Tuesday afternoon that he would depart the Camp Nou at the end of the season after 14 years with the club.

A number of players have since paid tribute and now Pique, via his official Facebook page, has had his say on the Spanish international.

"The day has arrived. You are leaving. It's the law of life, but it is tough for me to imagine Barca without you. If I look back and remember Paris or Rome, the first image that comes to my mind is you lifting the European Cup," wrote Pique.

"My generation and those that come after do not know what the club will be like without Puyi in defence sporting the captain's armband and the number 5 on the back of his shirt. I think that nothing will ever be the same.

"I met you 6 years ago. You were the captain and the emblem of the team and I was just a kid arriving, set on conquering the world. From day one we had a great relationship, both on and off the field. By your side I felt protected and I knew that if one day I made a mistake you'd always be there to save me. You were my guardian angel.

"I know that I will miss our talks in the locker room, your advice and especially you giving us hell on the pitch. You are unique; a one-off. I find it amusing when they talk about signing 'the new Puyol'. They can look all they want, but they'll never find it. Thanks for everything, Puyi."

Puyol has made 593 first-team appearances for Barca.