Thursday. 28.03.2024

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique and pop sensation Shakira have announced their separation.

The pair had been together for 11 years and have two children, aged nine and seven.

Amid recent speculation of growing disharmony, a widely released statement via Shakira's communication agency on Saturday confirmed the couple have split.

"We regret to confirm that we are parting ways," Shakira's statement read.

"For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy. Thank you for your understanding."

RTVE: Pique unfaithful

Pique met Shakira while appearing in her single 'Waka Waka,' the official song for the 2010 World Cup, which the centre-back went on to win with Spain.

He has spent the past 14 years with Barcelona and has made over 600 appearances for the club, 40 of those coming in the 2021-22 campaign.

According to reports from the Spanish media, including RTVE, Pique would have been unfaithful to the singer, who would have demanded that he leave home. The soccer player has returned to his bachelor apartment in Barcelona.

Barcelona defender Pique splits from long-time partner Shakira