It has been two years since her split from Gerard Piqué but Shakira still is unsure about what her future love life is going to be. In a recent interview, Shakira&nbsp;explained that following her break up with Gerard, she is prioritising 'friendship' over everything else.&nbsp; 
 
Gerard and Shakira broke up after being together for 12 years. They share&nbsp;two sons, Milan, 11, and Sasha, 9.&nbsp; 
 
"I think friendship lasts longer than love," Shakira said to Zane Lowe in an interview for Apple Music 1. "Though I still think experiencing love, fully experiencing it with all its peaks and valleys, it's so essential to the human life." 
 
The 47-year-old continued, "I love love, but I think I even love friendship a little bit more. Because I thought love would be there forever for me. And that's one of my, you know, broken dreams. Perhaps I will. I don't know if I'll like find that again. Probably not. Well, I don't know. But friendship, I have."

Shakira stated that&nbsp;she had not valued frienships earlier and had put being in a relationship first. 
 
"I wasn't one of those people who valued friendship as much. I've always valued family and having a partner in a couple. I've always been in a couple," she explained.&nbsp;

"But then when that wasn't there, and when I lost my boys and when I had to face the darkest and the hardest moments of my life, friends were there and they kept me together," Shakira continued.

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"Those who did really showed me the true, the true meaning of life. I might not grow old with a partner, but I will grow old surrounded by good friends."

The singer has been evidently heartbroken after the relationship with Gerard ended. In another interview, she rued that she gave up professional opportunities to spend time with Piqué while he was playing for FC Barcelona.

"For a long time, I put my career on hold, to be next to Gerard, so he could play football," Shakira told The Sunday Times. "There was a lot of sacrifice for love."

On March 22, the singer will debut her&nbsp;new album in seven years, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran (Women Don’t Cry Anymore).&nbsp;Since her separation from Piqué, she released a handful of new tracks but her full-length studio album was released back in 2017.

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It has been two years since her split from Gerard Piqué but Shakira still is unsure about what her future love life is going to be. In a recent interview, Shakira explained that following her break up with Gerard, she is prioritising 'friendship' over everything else.

It has been two years since her split from Gerard Piqué but Shakira still is unsure about what her future love life is going to be. In a recent interview, Shakira explained that following her break up with Gerard, she is prioritising 'friendship' over everything else. Gerard and Shakira broke up after being together for 12 years. They share two sons, Milan, 11, and Sasha, 9. "I think friendship lasts longer than love," Shakira said to Zane Lowe in an interview for Apple Music 1. "Though I still think experiencing love, fully experiencing it with all its peaks and valleys, it's so essential to the human life." The 47-year-old continued, "I love love, but I think I even love friendship a little bit more. Because I thought love would be there forever for me. And that's one of my, you know, broken dreams. Perhaps I will. I don't know if I'll like find that again. Probably not. Well, I don't know. But friendship, I have." Shakira stated that she had not valued frienships earlier and had put being in a relationship first. "I wasn't one of those people who valued friendship as much. I've always valued family and having a partner in a couple. I've always been in a couple," she explained. "But then when that wasn't there, and when I lost my boys and when I had to face the darkest and the hardest moments of my life, friends were there and they kept me together," Shakira continued. Oprah Winfrey reveals going on liquid diet and facing shame over her weight "Those who did really showed me the true, the true meaning of life. I might not grow old with a partner, but I will grow old surrounded by good friends." The singer has been evidently heartbroken after the relationship with Gerard ended. In another interview, she rued that she gave up professional opportunities to spend time with Piqué while he was playing for FC Barcelona. "For a long time, I put my career on hold, to be next to Gerard, so he could play football," Shakira told The Sunday Times. "There was a lot of sacrifice for love." On March 22, the singer will debut her new album in seven years, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran (Women Don’t Cry Anymore). Since her separation from Piqué, she released a handful of new tracks but her full-length studio album was released back in 2017. SS Rajamouli experienced strong earthquake in Japan, reveals son SS Karthikeya

Shakira feels she will not find love again after a bitter break up with Gerard Piqué

At the height of the news of Shakira's splitsville saga, there was a 'jam jar' story: that she found out about&nbsp;former partner Gerard Piqué's infidelity after finding an empty jam jar in the kitchen. That story gained a lot of traction back in the day, but the Columbian singer is dispelling those rumours now.

In a recent interview, Shakira, 47, finally put to rest rumours surrounding the jam jar as a reason for her split from former partner Gerard Piqué, 37. 
 
Fueling the speculation was Shakira's music video for "Te Felicito," released just two months before their breakup, which depicted her looking in her fridge. 
 
This prompted conjecture about how she may have discovered Piqué's relationship with Clara Chia Marti.

In response to inquiries about Piqué's alleged cheating being exposed by a jar of jam, Shakira dismissed the rumour as "not true," providing a straightforward clarification to The Sunday Times.

The former couple, who publicly ended their 11-year romance in June 2022, share two sons, Milan, 11, and Sasha, nine.

&nbsp;

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Delving into her personal journey, Shakira discussed prioritising love over her career, highlighting sacrifices made to support Piqué's football career.&nbsp;

"For a long time I put my career on hold, to be next to Gerard, so he could play football," she told the outlet. "There was a lot of sacrifice for love."

Despite challenges, she remains resilient, with her latest album, "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran" (Women No Longer Cry), set to release on Friday by Sony Latin.&nbsp;

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Coming to the album, Shakira emphasised the healing power of music, stating, "The album will represent the transformation of pain into creativity, frustration into productivity, anger into passion, vulnerability into resilience."

"There were so many pieces of my life that crumbled in front of my eyes and I had to rebuild myself in a way, picking up the bones from the floor and putting them all together," she continued. "And the glue that kept it all together was music."

At the height of the news of Shakira's splitsville saga, there was a 'jam jar' story: that she found out about former partner Gerard Piqué's infidelity after finding an empty jam jar in the kitchen.

At the height of the news of Shakira's splitsville saga, there was a 'jam jar' story: that she found out about former partner Gerard Piqué's infidelity after finding an empty jam jar in the kitchen. That story gained a lot of traction back in the day, but the Columbian singer is dispelling those rumours now. In a recent interview, Shakira, 47, finally put to rest rumours surrounding the jam jar as a reason for her split from former partner Gerard Piqué, 37. Fueling the speculation was Shakira's music video for "Te Felicito," released just two months before their breakup, which depicted her looking in her fridge. This prompted conjecture about how she may have discovered Piqué's relationship with Clara Chia Marti. In response to inquiries about Piqué's alleged cheating being exposed by a jar of jam, Shakira dismissed the rumour as "not true," providing a straightforward clarification to The Sunday Times. The former couple, who publicly ended their 11-year romance in June 2022, share two sons, Milan, 11, and Sasha, nine. Also read: Movie armorer challenges conviction in fatal shooting of cinematographer by Alec Baldwin Delving into her personal journey, Shakira discussed prioritising love over her career, highlighting sacrifices made to support Piqué's football career. "For a long time I put my career on hold, to be next to Gerard, so he could play football," she told the outlet. "There was a lot of sacrifice for love." Despite challenges, she remains resilient, with her latest album, "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran" (Women No Longer Cry), set to release on Friday by Sony Latin. Also read: Stormy documentary: 7 jaw-dropping revelations made by porn star about Donald Trump scandal Coming to the album, Shakira emphasised the healing power of music, stating, "The album will represent the transformation of pain into creativity, frustration into productivity, anger into passion, vulnerability into resilience." "There were so many pieces of my life that crumbled in front of my eyes and I had to rebuild myself in a way, picking up the bones from the floor and putting them all together," she continued. "And the glue that kept it all together was music."

That 'jam jar' story on how Shakira found out about Gerard Piqué's infidelity is not true, after all

Shakira recently opened up about her 11-year relationship with ex-partner Gerard Piqué, revealing that she put her career on hold to support him during his time with FC Barcelona. The singer, 47, and the soccer star, 37, dated from 2011 to 2022 and share two sons, Milan, 11, and Sasha, 9.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Shakira reflected on how she prioritised her relationship with Piqué over her career. She spoke about giving up professional opportunities to be by his side while he played football for FC Barcelona.

"For a long time, I put my career on hold, to be next to Gerard, so he could play football," Shakira said.

Shakira and Piqué announced their separation in June 2022, stating, “For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect our privacy." The couple had confirmed their relationship in 2011 after meeting while she was promoting her 2010 World Cup anthem, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).”

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Shakira's recent collaboration on “BZRP Music Sessions #53” took a bold stance, with the track addressing her breakup with Piqué. The song reached No. 1 on the Hot Latin Songs chart and broke 14 Guinness World Records, showcasing Shakira's artistic expression and emotional journey.

Shakira is set to drop her first album in seven years, titled Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran&nbsp;(Women Don't Cry Anymore), on March 22. This highly anticipated release also marks Shakira's debut on vinyl.

Shakira recently opened up about her 11-year relationship with ex-partner Gerard Piqué, revealing that she put her career on hold to support him during his time with FC Barcelona.

Shakira recently opened up about her 11-year relationship with ex-partner Gerard Piqué, revealing that she put her career on hold to support him during his time with FC Barcelona. The singer, 47, and the soccer star, 37, dated from 2011 to 2022 and share two sons, Milan, 11, and Sasha, 9. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Shakira reflected on how she prioritised her relationship with Piqué over her career. She spoke about giving up professional opportunities to be by his side while he played football for FC Barcelona. "For a long time, I put my career on hold, to be next to Gerard, so he could play football," Shakira said. Shakira and Piqué announced their separation in June 2022, stating, “For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect our privacy." The couple had confirmed their relationship in 2011 after meeting while she was promoting her 2010 World Cup anthem, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).” Also read: Madame Tussauds Orlando unveils new Dua Lipa wax figure dedicated to Future Nostalgia album Shakira's recent collaboration on “BZRP Music Sessions #53” took a bold stance, with the track addressing her breakup with Piqué. The song reached No. 1 on the Hot Latin Songs chart and broke 14 Guinness World Records, showcasing Shakira's artistic expression and emotional journey. Shakira is set to drop her first album in seven years, titled Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran (Women Don't Cry Anymore), on March 22. This highly anticipated release also marks Shakira's debut on vinyl.

Shakira says she prioritised relationship with Gerard Piqué over music career

Months after a messy separation from soccer star Gerard Piqué, Shakira is finally ready to start a new chapter in her life outside of Spain! She has left Barcelona with her two sons and parents "in the pursuit of their happiness". She shared the same via an Instagram post that instantly went viral online.&nbsp;

"I established myself in Barcelona to give my kids stability, the same one we are now looking for in another corner of the world alongside my family, friends and the sea," Shakira shared on social media. "Today we start a new chapter in search of their happiness."

Shakira continued, “Thank you to everyone that surfed with me in the Barcelona waves, the city in which I learned that friendship is longer than love. Thanks to everyone that helped me, dried my tears, inspired me and made me grow. Thanks to all my Spanish fans that gave me their loyalty and love. For you guys, it’s only a see you later and like my father said many times, we’ll see you on the curves." Check it out below!

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Shakira is reportedly moving back to Miami, Florida with her two sons Milan and Sasha. The "Waka Waka" singer had reportedly planned to leave the city in January, but the date was pushed back due to her father William Mebarak Chadid's declining health.&nbsp;

The relocation comes months after Piqué reportedly cheated on the singer with a woman who he is now publically dating,&nbsp;Clara Chía.

Following the split, Shakira wrote a song as a public acknowledgement and statement. She collaborated with Bizarrap for "Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53" and dissed her ex-beau.&nbsp;The song became an instant global hit and it currently has over 482 million views on YouTube.

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Months after a messy separation from soccer star Gerard Piqué, Shakira is finally ready to start a new chapter in her life outside of Spain! She has left Barcelona with her two sons and parents "in the pursuit of their happiness".

Months after a messy separation from soccer star Gerard Piqué, Shakira is finally ready to start a new chapter in her life outside of Spain! She has left Barcelona with her two sons and parents "in the pursuit of their happiness". She shared the same via an Instagram post that instantly went viral online. "I established myself in Barcelona to give my kids stability, the same one we are now looking for in another corner of the world alongside my family, friends and the sea," Shakira shared on social media. "Today we start a new chapter in search of their happiness." Shakira continued, “Thank you to everyone that surfed with me in the Barcelona waves, the city in which I learned that friendship is longer than love. Thanks to everyone that helped me, dried my tears, inspired me and made me grow. Thanks to all my Spanish fans that gave me their loyalty and love. For you guys, it’s only a see you later and like my father said many times, we’ll see you on the curves." Check it out below! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shakira (@shakira) Also read: Richard Madden is in Mumbai! Actor all set to promote Citadel with Priyanka Chopra Jonas Shakira is reportedly moving back to Miami, Florida with her two sons Milan and Sasha. The "Waka Waka" singer had reportedly planned to leave the city in January, but the date was pushed back due to her father William Mebarak Chadid's declining health. The relocation comes months after Piqué reportedly cheated on the singer with a woman who he is now publically dating, Clara Chía. Following the split, Shakira wrote a song as a public acknowledgement and statement. She collaborated with Bizarrap for "Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53" and dissed her ex-beau. The song became an instant global hit and it currently has over 482 million views on YouTube. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shakira bids adieu to Barcelona months after messy split with Gerard Pique

Adele has joked that former footballer Gerard Pique is in 'trouble' after she watched his ex-partner, singer Shakira's performance on Jimmy Fallon's show. Shakira recently appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and performed her breakup song BZRP Music Session #53 to a cheering studio audience.&nbsp; 
 
Days later during her Las Vegas residency concert at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Adele walked through the audience, interacting with a select few and asked a young fan who her favourite musician was. The fan named Adele and also stated that Shakira was her favourite. 
 
Adele responded with her signature big laugh and said, “Oh, I saw her performance last night on Jimmy Fallon… Oh, her ex-husband is in trouble!” 
 
Shakira, 46, and Piqué, 36, announced their separation in June 2022, after 11 years of being together. The couple shares two children, Sasha, seven, and Milan, nine. 
 
They said in a joint statement, “We regret to confirm that we are separating. For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect our privacy. Thank you for your understanding.” 
 
In January, Piqué made his relationship with his new girlfriend Clara Chia Marti Instagram official, when he posted an intimate selfie with the 23-year-old on his social media, the account cemented speculations of cheating on Shakira which led to the split.&nbsp; 
 
The following month, the Hips Don’t Lie&nbsp;singer released her song, which has been labeled by fans as a “diss track” aimed at her ex. 
She sings, “Seeing you with the new one hurt me. What we lived I forgot. And that is what has offended you. And life has got even better for me. You are no longer welcome here,” she continues in the song. 
 
“I saw what your girlfriend threw at me. That doesn’t even make me angry, I laugh, I laugh.” 
 
In her first interview post the separation, Shakira had told Elle, “It’s really upsetting for two kids who are trying to process their parents’ separation. And sometimes I just feel like this is all a bad dream and that I’m going to wake up at some point.

“But no, it’s real. And what’s also real is the disappointment to see something as sacred and as special as I thought was the relationship I had with my kids’ father and see that turned into something vulgarised and cheapened by the media.” 
&nbsp;

Adele has joked that former footballer Gerard Pique is in 'trouble' after she watched his ex-partner, singer Shakira's performance on Jimmy Fallon's show. Shakira recently appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and performed her breakup song BZRP Music Session #53 to a cheering studio audience.

Adele has joked that former footballer Gerard Pique is in 'trouble' after she watched his ex-partner, singer Shakira's performance on Jimmy Fallon's show. Shakira recently appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and performed her breakup song BZRP Music Session #53 to a cheering studio audience. Days later during her Las Vegas residency concert at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Adele walked through the audience, interacting with a select few and asked a young fan who her favourite musician was. The fan named Adele and also stated that Shakira was her favourite. Adele responded with her signature big laugh and said, “Oh, I saw her performance last night on Jimmy Fallon… Oh, her ex-husband is in trouble!” Shakira, 46, and Piqué, 36, announced their separation in June 2022, after 11 years of being together. The couple shares two children, Sasha, seven, and Milan, nine. They said in a joint statement, “We regret to confirm that we are separating. For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect our privacy. Thank you for your understanding.” In January, Piqué made his relationship with his new girlfriend Clara Chia Marti Instagram official, when he posted an intimate selfie with the 23-year-old on his social media, the account cemented speculations of cheating on Shakira which led to the split. The following month, the Hips Don’t Lie singer released her song, which has been labeled by fans as a “diss track” aimed at her ex. She sings, “Seeing you with the new one hurt me. What we lived I forgot. And that is what has offended you. And life has got even better for me. You are no longer welcome here,” she continues in the song. “I saw what your girlfriend threw at me. That doesn’t even make me angry, I laugh, I laugh.” In her first interview post the separation, Shakira had told Elle, “It’s really upsetting for two kids who are trying to process their parents’ separation. And sometimes I just feel like this is all a bad dream and that I’m going to wake up at some point. “But no, it’s real. And what’s also real is the disappointment to see something as sacred and as special as I thought was the relationship I had with my kids’ father and see that turned into something vulgarised and cheapened by the media.”

Adele jokes about Gerard Pique being in 'trouble' after watching Shakira's performance

In her new song 'TQG', Columbian pop star Shakira goes personal about her separation from ex and former Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué. In the song the 'Waka Waka' hitmaker collaborated with her compatriot Karol G. The Spanish-language song was translated into English by Billboard. The lyrics of Shakira's part talk, quite blatantly, about the failed relationship. She says, "Seeing you with the new girl hurt me, but I’m now set on me / I’ve forgotten what we lived together, and that’s what you’re offended by / And even my life got better, you are no longer welcome here / And what your girlfriend slayed at me, that doesn’t anger me, it makes me laugh." And later, "Now you want to come back to me, it shows."

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It has been a time-honoured tradition of singers-songwriters who are lovelorn, jilted, cheated and so on to express their feelings of pain, heartbreak, or revenge. This is how one of the biggest musical stars like Adele and Taylor Swift became, um, such big stars.

Shakira and Gerard separated last year after 11 years of a relationship that began after Gerard appeared in the music video 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)', the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. They announced their separation back in June this year.&nbsp;

In September 2022, Shakira opened up about the split with Gerard. While speaking to Elle Magazine, she rued the constant presence of the paparazzi watching her every move. She said, "It’s hard to talk about it, especially because I’m still going through it, and because I’m in the public eye and because our separation is not like a regular separation. And so it’s been tough not only for me, but also for my kids.''

"I have paparazzi camping outside, in front of my house, 24/7. And there’s not a place where I can hide from them with my kids, except for my own house. You know, we can’t take a walk in the park like a regular family or go have an ice cream or do any activity without the paparazzi following us. So it’s hard.," she added.

Shakira and Gerard share two sons, Milan and Sasha.

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In her new song 'TQG', Columbian pop star Shakira goes personal about her separation from ex and former Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué. In the song the 'Waka Waka' hitmaker collaborated with her compatriot Karol G.

In her new song 'TQG', Columbian pop star Shakira goes personal about her separation from ex and former Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué. In the song the 'Waka Waka' hitmaker collaborated with her compatriot Karol G. The Spanish-language song was translated into English by Billboard. The lyrics of Shakira's part talk, quite blatantly, about the failed relationship. She says, "Seeing you with the new girl hurt me, but I’m now set on me / I’ve forgotten what we lived together, and that’s what you’re offended by / And even my life got better, you are no longer welcome here / And what your girlfriend slayed at me, that doesn’t anger me, it makes me laugh." And later, "Now you want to come back to me, it shows." It has been a time-honoured tradition of singers-songwriters who are lovelorn, jilted, cheated and so on to express their feelings of pain, heartbreak, or revenge. This is how one of the biggest musical stars like Adele and Taylor Swift became, um, such big stars. Shakira and Gerard separated last year after 11 years of a relationship that began after Gerard appeared in the music video 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)', the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. They announced their separation back in June this year. In September 2022, Shakira opened up about the split with Gerard. While speaking to Elle Magazine, she rued the constant presence of the paparazzi watching her every move. She said, "It’s hard to talk about it, especially because I’m still going through it, and because I’m in the public eye and because our separation is not like a regular separation. And so it’s been tough not only for me, but also for my kids.'' "I have paparazzi camping outside, in front of my house, 24/7. And there’s not a place where I can hide from them with my kids, except for my own house. You know, we can’t take a walk in the park like a regular family or go have an ice cream or do any activity without the paparazzi following us. So it’s hard.," she added. Shakira and Gerard share two sons, Milan and Sasha. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shakira reveals she was hurt by seeing ex Gerard Piqué with new girlfriend in new diss song

In what comes as shocking news for all the football fans across the world, recently-crowned World Cup winner with Argentina, Lionel Messi and his father once gave an ultimatum to then Barcelona President Joan Laporta to expel six players if they wanted to retain him, as reported by Venezuelan newspaper El Nacional. The report also suggests&nbsp;that Messi and his father -&nbsp;who also happened to be his agent, pushed Laporta to get rid of half a dozen players including Messi’s old teammate and Champions League winner, Gerard Pique. Messi, in 2021, after spending more than two decades at Camp Nou, left FC Barcelona for Ligue 1 club Paris Saint Germain.

As reports of an alleged rift between Messi and Pique made headlines on several occasions in the past, the ex-World Cup winner with Spain even admitted sitting across the table with the top brass at the club and spoke about repercussions of renewing Messi’s contract at FC Barcelona. Having played 506 matches together at the club, Messi and Pique had their differences and the defender opened up about what he told the bosses last year while signing a new contract.

“I’m good with numbers, but I find it hard to get my head around the financial fair play thing. I don’t know. I sat down with the president and it was clear that I had to reach an agreement with the club; otherwise we weren’t going to be able to register any signings. And I think if Leo’s contract had been renewed, the numbers would have been really difficult. I don’t know whether or not it would have been viable if everyone had made a monumental effort. I don’t have the information,” Pique told Spanish newspaper El Pais in 2022.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messis-last-minute-free-kick-helps-psg-beat-lille-4-3-coach-galtier-rues-schedule-for-neymars-injury-563893">Lionel Messi's last-minute free-kick helps PSG beat Lille 4-3, coach Galtier rues schedule for Neymar's injury</a>

Pique also claimed that he didn’t wish Messi congratulations after he won the World Cup last year, saying that he wanted some time off from everything, and that he didn’t even watch the final match completely.

“No, honestly, no. My last months were very hard and I needed to disconnect. I haven’t seen any sport, and I did not even see any World Cup games. This will seem crazy to you but I didn’t watch any games, just the final and not the whole game,” Spain’s veteran defender told Tiktok personality John Nellis earlier.

Meanwhile, other than Pique, Lionel Messi and his father wanted goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, mid-fielder Riqui Puig, forward Antoine Griezmann, young winger Ansu Fati and head coach Ronald Koeman to be removed if the club intended to renew Messi’s contract then.

Lately, Messi broke the internet with a tremendous free-kick strike during the dying minutes in the league game against Lille – helping his team win the crucial match 4-3.

You can watch the video here -

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
That Moment and the way he celebrated that goal says it all that how much he passionate about PSG 🥺❤️💙 
 
Lionel Messi 👏❤️🐐 <a href="https://t.co/piABT0hklg">pic.twitter.com/piABT0hklg</a>
— EhsaN (@EhsaN_PSG) <a href="https://twitter.com/EhsaN_PSG/status/1627540768113192960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

In what comes as shocking news for all the football fans across the world, recently-crowned World Cup winner with Argentina, Lionel Messi and his father once gave an ultimatum to then Barcelona President Joan Laporta to expel six players if they wanted to retain him, as reported by Venezuelan newspaper El Nacional.

In what comes as shocking news for all the football fans across the world, recently-crowned World Cup winner with Argentina, Lionel Messi and his father once gave an ultimatum to then Barcelona President Joan Laporta to expel six players if they wanted to retain him, as reported by Venezuelan newspaper El Nacional. The report also suggests that Messi and his father - who also happened to be his agent, pushed Laporta to get rid of half a dozen players including Messi’s old teammate and Champions League winner, Gerard Pique. Messi, in 2021, after spending more than two decades at Camp Nou, left FC Barcelona for Ligue 1 club Paris Saint Germain. As reports of an alleged rift between Messi and Pique made headlines on several occasions in the past, the ex-World Cup winner with Spain even admitted sitting across the table with the top brass at the club and spoke about repercussions of renewing Messi’s contract at FC Barcelona. Having played 506 matches together at the club, Messi and Pique had their differences and the defender opened up about what he told the bosses last year while signing a new contract. “I’m good with numbers, but I find it hard to get my head around the financial fair play thing. I don’t know. I sat down with the president and it was clear that I had to reach an agreement with the club; otherwise we weren’t going to be able to register any signings. And I think if Leo’s contract had been renewed, the numbers would have been really difficult. I don’t know whether or not it would have been viable if everyone had made a monumental effort. I don’t have the information,” Pique told Spanish newspaper El Pais in 2022. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi's last-minute free-kick helps PSG beat Lille 4-3, coach Galtier rues schedule for Neymar's injury Pique also claimed that he didn’t wish Messi congratulations after he won the World Cup last year, saying that he wanted some time off from everything, and that he didn’t even watch the final match completely. “No, honestly, no. My last months were very hard and I needed to disconnect. I haven’t seen any sport, and I did not even see any World Cup games. This will seem crazy to you but I didn’t watch any games, just the final and not the whole game,” Spain’s veteran defender told Tiktok personality John Nellis earlier. Meanwhile, other than Pique, Lionel Messi and his father wanted goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, mid-fielder Riqui Puig, forward Antoine Griezmann, young winger Ansu Fati and head coach Ronald Koeman to be removed if the club intended to renew Messi’s contract then. Lately, Messi broke the internet with a tremendous free-kick strike during the dying minutes in the league game against Lille – helping his team win the crucial match 4-3. You can watch the video here - That Moment and the way he celebrated that goal says it all that how much he passionate about PSG 🥺❤️💙 Lionel Messi 👏❤️🐐 pic.twitter.com/piABT0hklg — EhsaN (@EhsaN_PSG) February 20, 2023 ×

Lionel Messi and his father wanted THESE six players to be expelled from Barcelona: Reports

Pop star Shakira is just about any of us! In a bizarre update from her ex Gerard Pique’s cheating scandal, it’s been found out the singer (among other things) realised he was cheating on her after she found her jam jar empty. Apparently, her ex doesn’t eat strawberry jam. Shakira told news outlets that she was away from home as she was touring but when she came back, she found out that someone had visited her home behind her back and eaten her jam since her former partner doesn’t eat jam.&nbsp;

Shakira made a reference of this episode in her recently released song with Rauw Alejandro ‘Tu Felicito’ where she opens a fridge and finds Alejandro’s head on a plate.&nbsp;

Shakira was also in the news recently for her and Gerard Pique’s breakup song, that some also call the diss song, that goes like "You left me as a neighbor to the mother-in-law / With the press at the door and the debt at the IRS / You thought you'd hurt me, but you made me tougher / Women don't cry anymore, women invoice."

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shakira-takes-a-dig-at-cheating-ex-gerard-pique-you-swapped-rolex-for-a-casio-552434">lyrics of the song have gone viral </a>and have also become a hit on YouTube having broken many records since its release. The song lyrics go like:

"No hard feelings, baby, I wish you the best with my supposed replacement 
I don't even know what happened to you 
You're so weird that I can't even tell you apart 
I'm worth two 22's 
You traded a Ferrari for a Twingo 
You traded a Rolex for a Casio"

Meanwhile, Gerard has seemingly responded to the song by driving a Twingo, and wearing a Casio.&nbsp;

Pop star Shakira is just about any of us! In a bizarre update from her ex Gerard Pique’s cheating scandal, it’s been found out the singer (among other things) realised he was cheating on her after she found her jam jar empty.

Pop star Shakira is just about any of us! In a bizarre update from her ex Gerard Pique’s cheating scandal, it’s been found out the singer (among other things) realised he was cheating on her after she found her jam jar empty. Apparently, her ex doesn’t eat strawberry jam. Shakira told news outlets that she was away from home as she was touring but when she came back, she found out that someone had visited her home behind her back and eaten her jam since her former partner doesn’t eat jam. Shakira made a reference of this episode in her recently released song with Rauw Alejandro ‘Tu Felicito’ where she opens a fridge and finds Alejandro’s head on a plate. Shakira was also in the news recently for her and Gerard Pique’s breakup song, that some also call the diss song, that goes like "You left me as a neighbor to the mother-in-law / With the press at the door and the debt at the IRS / You thought you'd hurt me, but you made me tougher / Women don't cry anymore, women invoice." The lyrics of the song have gone viral and have also become a hit on YouTube having broken many records since its release. The song lyrics go like: "No hard feelings, baby, I wish you the best with my supposed replacement I don't even know what happened to you You're so weird that I can't even tell you apart I'm worth two 22's You traded a Ferrari for a Twingo You traded a Rolex for a Casio" Meanwhile, Gerard has seemingly responded to the song by driving a Twingo, and wearing a Casio.

It's bizarre! Shakira realised ex Gerard Piqué was cheating thanks to a jam jar

Colombian&nbsp;pop star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-darkest-hours-of-my-life-shakira-breaks-her-silence-on-her-split-from-gerard-pique-518612">Shakira </a>and retired Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué have come to an agreement over the custody of their two children. Shakira will get full custody of the sons, Milan and Sasha. Shakira and Gerard had separated after 11 years of a relationship that began after Gerard appeared in the music video 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)', the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. They announced their separation back in June this year.&nbsp;

In a joint statement given to the tabloid website TMZ, the former couple said, "We have signed a custody agreement. Our sole objective is to provide our children with the utmost security and protection and hope that they can continue with their lives in a safe and calm environment."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-felt-liberatedbarcelona-defender-gerard-pique-on-decision-to-retire-from-football-531606">'I felt liberated': Barcelona defender Gerard Pique on decision to retire from football</a>

A source told TMZ that they "signed an agreement that is best for the kids -- which is their main focus and after eight years of living in Barcelona -- Shakira and the kids will now move back to her longtime home of Miami, where all the maternal family is."

It further reported that the representatives of both&nbsp;negotiated for 12 hours before coming to the decision. Gerard Piqué will spend Christmas in Barcelona, and then the kids will live their life in Miami with their mother.

Earlier in September, Shakira had opened up about the split with Gerard. While speaking to Elle Magazine, she rued the constant presence of the paparazzi watching her every move. She said, "It’s hard to talk about it, especially because I’m still going through it, and because I’m in the public eye and because our separation is not like a regular separation. And so it’s been tough not only for me, but also for my kids.''

"I have paparazzi camping outside, in front of my house, 24/7. And there’s not a place where I can hide from them with my kids, except for my own house. You know, we can’t take a walk in the park like a regular family or go have an ice cream or do any activity without the paparazzi following us. So it’s hard.," she added.

 
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Colombian pop star Shakira and retired Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué have come to an agreement over the custody of their two children. Shakira will get full custody of the sons, Milan and Sasha.

Colombian pop star Shakira and retired Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué have come to an agreement over the custody of their two children. Shakira will get full custody of the sons, Milan and Sasha. Shakira and Gerard had separated after 11 years of a relationship that began after Gerard appeared in the music video 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)', the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. They announced their separation back in June this year. In a joint statement given to the tabloid website TMZ, the former couple said, "We have signed a custody agreement. Our sole objective is to provide our children with the utmost security and protection and hope that they can continue with their lives in a safe and calm environment." Also Read: 'I felt liberated': Barcelona defender Gerard Pique on decision to retire from football A source told TMZ that they "signed an agreement that is best for the kids -- which is their main focus and after eight years of living in Barcelona -- Shakira and the kids will now move back to her longtime home of Miami, where all the maternal family is." It further reported that the representatives of both negotiated for 12 hours before coming to the decision. Gerard Piqué will spend Christmas in Barcelona, and then the kids will live their life in Miami with their mother. Earlier in September, Shakira had opened up about the split with Gerard. While speaking to Elle Magazine, she rued the constant presence of the paparazzi watching her every move. She said, "It’s hard to talk about it, especially because I’m still going through it, and because I’m in the public eye and because our separation is not like a regular separation. And so it’s been tough not only for me, but also for my kids.'' "I have paparazzi camping outside, in front of my house, 24/7. And there’s not a place where I can hide from them with my kids, except for my own house. You know, we can’t take a walk in the park like a regular family or go have an ice cream or do any activity without the paparazzi following us. So it’s hard.," she added.

Shakira, Gerard Piqué reach agreement over custody of sons after 12 hours of negotiations

Retiring Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he felt liberated when coach Xavi Hernandez took him off in the 83rd minute of the 2-0 win over Almeria on Saturday as he walked off in tears to a standing ovation from a packed Camp Nou.

The 35-year-old Pique announced on Friday that this would be his last game in the historic stadium as he decided to retire from soccer when LaLiga breaks for the World Cup next week.

"It was like taking a heavy burden off my back when I walked off the pitch," Pique told DAZN. "The last few months were really difficult and today I felt liberated. It was a lifetime experience that I'll take forever with me.

"I'm happy for giving it all for this club. There were good and bad days, but I'm proud of it. I think I leave with a job well done."

Pique started the game as captain on Saturday in a season where he faced heavy criticism for his poor form and fell out of favour with coach Xavi Hernandez who reportedly asked him in the close season to leave or retire.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-to-miss-psg-trip-to-lorient-with-achilles-injury-531474">Lionel Messi to miss PSG trip to Lorient with Achilles injury</a>

The signings of centre backs Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and the breakout of youngster Ronald Araujo has left Pique out of the picture at the age of 35.

There was the added pressure regarding his salary, reportedly the biggest at a club struggling financially and where every euro could affect their ability to sign or register new players facing the scrutiny of LaLiga's Financial Fair Play.

According to multiple reports, Pique will renounce the remaining year and half of his salary, a decision that will help Barcelona improve their Financial Fair Play margin.

"Pique was outstanding today and has once again shown that the bigger the game, the more it pays off," Xavi told DAZN. "I have told him that he is a legend at Barca and we are very grateful for his years at the club."

After the game, Pique was lifted in the air by his team mates and celebrated by the fans who chanted repeatedly "President! President! President!" as he is widely viewed in Barcelona as a future candidate to take over that post.

Regarded as one of the best centre backs of his generation, Pique collected 36 trophies in an 18-year career, including four Champions League titles plus a World Cup and European Championship with Spain.

But he is also a successful businessman, as the founder of Kosmos Holding, a company that has big investments in E-Sports, owns Spain's second division club FC Andorra and signed a 25-year, $3 billion partnership with the International Tennis Federation to transform the Davis Cup, among other investments.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-has-last-chance-to-shine-on-world-cup-stage-for-portugal-in-qatar-531433">Cristiano Ronaldo has last chance to shine on World Cup stage for Portugal in Qatar</a>

In June Pique announced his separation from Colombian singer Shakira and in April he denied any wrongdoing over his involvement in helping the Spanish FA secure a deal to relocate Spain's Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, an agreement which earned his Kosmos company $23.41 million in commission.

"I have a thousand things in front of me to choose, I need to organise myself," Pique said.

"This is my home. I was born here and I will return. But now it's time to enjoy the family, I'll go on vacation for a while."

Retiring Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he felt liberated when coach Xavi Hernandez took him off in the 83rd minute of the 2-0 win over Almeria on Saturday as he walked off in tears to a standing ovation from a packed Camp Nou.

Retiring Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he felt liberated when coach Xavi Hernandez took him off in the 83rd minute of the 2-0 win over Almeria on Saturday as he walked off in tears to a standing ovation from a packed Camp Nou. The 35-year-old Pique announced on Friday that this would be his last game in the historic stadium as he decided to retire from soccer when LaLiga breaks for the World Cup next week. "It was like taking a heavy burden off my back when I walked off the pitch," Pique told DAZN. "The last few months were really difficult and today I felt liberated. It was a lifetime experience that I'll take forever with me. "I'm happy for giving it all for this club. There were good and bad days, but I'm proud of it. I think I leave with a job well done." Pique started the game as captain on Saturday in a season where he faced heavy criticism for his poor form and fell out of favour with coach Xavi Hernandez who reportedly asked him in the close season to leave or retire. Also Read: Lionel Messi to miss PSG trip to Lorient with Achilles injury The signings of centre backs Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and the breakout of youngster Ronald Araujo has left Pique out of the picture at the age of 35. There was the added pressure regarding his salary, reportedly the biggest at a club struggling financially and where every euro could affect their ability to sign or register new players facing the scrutiny of LaLiga's Financial Fair Play. According to multiple reports, Pique will renounce the remaining year and half of his salary, a decision that will help Barcelona improve their Financial Fair Play margin. "Pique was outstanding today and has once again shown that the bigger the game, the more it pays off," Xavi told DAZN. "I have told him that he is a legend at Barca and we are very grateful for his years at the club." After the game, Pique was lifted in the air by his team mates and celebrated by the fans who chanted repeatedly "President! President! President!" as he is widely viewed in Barcelona as a future candidate to take over that post. Regarded as one of the best centre backs of his generation, Pique collected 36 trophies in an 18-year career, including four Champions League titles plus a World Cup and European Championship with Spain. But he is also a successful businessman, as the founder of Kosmos Holding, a company that has big investments in E-Sports, owns Spain's second division club FC Andorra and signed a 25-year, $3 billion partnership with the International Tennis Federation to transform the Davis Cup, among other investments. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo has last chance to shine on World Cup stage for Portugal in Qatar In June Pique announced his separation from Colombian singer Shakira and in April he denied any wrongdoing over his involvement in helping the Spanish FA secure a deal to relocate Spain's Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, an agreement which earned his Kosmos company $23.41 million in commission. "I have a thousand things in front of me to choose, I need to organise myself," Pique said. "This is my home. I was born here and I will return. But now it's time to enjoy the family, I'll go on vacation for a while."

'I felt liberated': Barcelona defender Gerard Pique on decision to retire from football

In June this year, Colombian singer Shakira and footballer Gerard Pique announced their separation after many reports about Gerand cheating on the 'Waka -Waka' singer came out. Now, after months of silence, Shakira is finally opening up about her split&nbsp;and how her music and children&nbsp;have helped her to get through the 'darkest' hours of her life.&nbsp; 
 
During her exclusive interview with Elle magazine, when asked about how she's doing after her shocking split, the 'Addicted to you' singer said, ''This is really hard to talk about personally.''

''I feel like in this moment of my life, which is probably one of the most difficult, darkest hours of my life, music has brought light,'' the mommy of two added.&nbsp; 
 
''Um, and yeah, it’s hard to talk about it, especially because I’m still going through it, and because I’m in the public eye and because our separation is not like a regular separation. And so it’s been tough not only for me, but also for my kids.'' 
 
Further, sharing how paparazzi have troubled her life ever since her breakup&nbsp;was officially&nbsp;announced, Shakira told the magazine, ''I have paparazzi camping outside, in front of my house, 24/7. And there’s not a place where I can hide from them with my kids, except for my own house. You know, we can’t take a walk in the park like a regular family or go have an ice cream or do any activity without the paparazzi following us. So it’s hard.'' 
 
In the decade-long relationship, Sharika and Gerard welcomed two sons — Milan Piqué Mebarak, 9, and Sasha Piqué Mebarak, 7. Talking further, the pop star opened up about how her kids are dealing with all this. 
 
''I’ve tried to conceal the situation in front of my kids. I try to do it and protect them because that’s my number one mission in life. But then they hear things in school from their friends or they come across some disagreeable, unpleasant news online, and it just affects them, you know?''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/central-asia/wion-exclusive-richa-moorjani-on-never-have-i-ever-mental-health-and-south-asian-representation-518600" hreflang="en">WION Exclusive! Richa Moorjani on 'Never Have I Ever', mental health and South Asian representatio</a>n 
 
In the interview later, Shakira also called out the local press of Spain, who are constantly keeping an eye on your kids, when they're going to school, and doing their regular activities.&nbsp; 
 
''They deserve a normal life. It’s just a total circus, and everyone is speculating about all of these aspects of our, and more importantly, our children’s, lives, and a lot of it isn’t even true,'' she said.&nbsp;

Shakira, who&nbsp;first met&nbsp;Gerard in the year&nbsp;2010 on the set of&nbsp;'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)', also opened up about the custody of their two kids and how they both as parents are dealing with&nbsp;it, "Regardless of how things ended or how Gerard and I feel about each other as ex-partners, he is the father of my children,'' she said.&nbsp;

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"We have a job to do for these two incredible boys, and I have faith that we will figure out what is best for their future, their own dreams in life, and what is a fair solution for everyone involved. And I hope and would appreciate if we were given the space to do that privately."

The former couple announced their separation via&nbsp;a joint statement.&nbsp;"We regret to confirm that we are separating. For the wellbeing of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy.''

In June this year, Colombian singer Shakira and footballer Gerard Pique announced their separation after many reports about Gerand cheating on the 'Waka -Waka' singer came out.

In June this year, Colombian singer Shakira and footballer Gerard Pique announced their separation after many reports about Gerand cheating on the 'Waka -Waka' singer came out. Now, after months of silence, Shakira is finally opening up about her split and how her music and children have helped her to get through the 'darkest' hours of her life. During her exclusive interview with Elle magazine, when asked about how she's doing after her shocking split, the 'Addicted to you' singer said, ''This is really hard to talk about personally.'' ''I feel like in this moment of my life, which is probably one of the most difficult, darkest hours of my life, music has brought light,'' the mommy of two added. ''Um, and yeah, it’s hard to talk about it, especially because I’m still going through it, and because I’m in the public eye and because our separation is not like a regular separation. And so it’s been tough not only for me, but also for my kids.'' Further, sharing how paparazzi have troubled her life ever since her breakup was officially announced, Shakira told the magazine, ''I have paparazzi camping outside, in front of my house, 24/7. And there’s not a place where I can hide from them with my kids, except for my own house. You know, we can’t take a walk in the park like a regular family or go have an ice cream or do any activity without the paparazzi following us. So it’s hard.'' In the decade-long relationship, Sharika and Gerard welcomed two sons — Milan Piqué Mebarak, 9, and Sasha Piqué Mebarak, 7. Talking further, the pop star opened up about how her kids are dealing with all this. ''I’ve tried to conceal the situation in front of my kids. I try to do it and protect them because that’s my number one mission in life. But then they hear things in school from their friends or they come across some disagreeable, unpleasant news online, and it just affects them, you know?'' WION Exclusive! Richa Moorjani on 'Never Have I Ever', mental health and South Asian representation In the interview later, Shakira also called out the local press of Spain, who are constantly keeping an eye on your kids, when they're going to school, and doing their regular activities. ''They deserve a normal life. It’s just a total circus, and everyone is speculating about all of these aspects of our, and more importantly, our children’s, lives, and a lot of it isn’t even true,'' she said. Shakira, who first met Gerard in the year 2010 on the set of 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)', also opened up about the custody of their two kids and how they both as parents are dealing with it, "Regardless of how things ended or how Gerard and I feel about each other as ex-partners, he is the father of my children,'' she said. Chris Pratt teases season 2 of 'The Terminal List' "We have a job to do for these two incredible boys, and I have faith that we will figure out what is best for their future, their own dreams in life, and what is a fair solution for everyone involved. And I hope and would appreciate if we were given the space to do that privately." The former couple announced their separation via a joint statement. "We regret to confirm that we are separating. For the wellbeing of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy.''

'The darkest hours of my life': Shakira breaks silence on her split from Gerard Piqué

Shakira is reportedly seeking 'psychological support' post her break up with long-time partner and footballer Gerard Pique. The singer is reported 'emotionally devastated' and is said to be going through a difficult time.&nbsp; 
 
Paparazzi Jordi Martin said as per Spanish media outlet Marc, that pictures of Gerard with his new girlfriend have especially affected her. 
 
"I can say that (Shakira) is in a bad place," Martin shared. "She is emotionally devastated. She has even needed psychological support." 
 
"She never expected Pique to be like this," added Martin, who claims to have followed the couple since the beginning of their romance.&nbsp; 
 
"My relationship with Pique and Shakira goes back 12 years, from the beginning of their relationship," said Martin. "That is, the first day they were together in Ibiza.”

"That night I was already on duty and I've always specialised when it comes to them," he said while saying that, "at the beginning, it was a very beautiful relationship, very intense.”

“There was a lot of passion between them, but the break-up has been very painful for Shakira,” he added.&nbsp; 
 
Sources close to the footballer state that Gerard seem to be in love with 22-year-old PR student Clara Chia Marti.&nbsp; 
 
“He isn't considering breaking up with her at all," Martin revealed. "Despite rumours, they are going to split, they are very much in love. That's why Shakira is going through a difficult time." 
 
The former lovebirds announced their separation in June this year after 12-year-long romance. The couple share two sons.&nbsp;

Shakira is reportedly seeking 'psychological support' post her break up with long-time partner and footballer Gerard Pique. The singer is reported 'emotionally devastated' and is said to be going through a difficult time.

Shakira is reportedly seeking 'psychological support' post her break up with long-time partner and footballer Gerard Pique. The singer is reported 'emotionally devastated' and is said to be going through a difficult time. Paparazzi Jordi Martin said as per Spanish media outlet Marc, that pictures of Gerard with his new girlfriend have especially affected her. "I can say that (Shakira) is in a bad place," Martin shared. "She is emotionally devastated. She has even needed psychological support." "She never expected Pique to be like this," added Martin, who claims to have followed the couple since the beginning of their romance. "My relationship with Pique and Shakira goes back 12 years, from the beginning of their relationship," said Martin. "That is, the first day they were together in Ibiza.” "That night I was already on duty and I've always specialised when it comes to them," he said while saying that, "at the beginning, it was a very beautiful relationship, very intense.” “There was a lot of passion between them, but the break-up has been very painful for Shakira,” he added. Sources close to the footballer state that Gerard seem to be in love with 22-year-old PR student Clara Chia Marti. “He isn't considering breaking up with her at all," Martin revealed. "Despite rumours, they are going to split, they are very much in love. That's why Shakira is going through a difficult time." The former lovebirds announced their separation in June this year after 12-year-long romance. The couple share two sons.

Shakira reportedly seeking 'psychological support' post break-up with Gerard Pique

Manchester United are set to embark on a new era under new manager Erik Ten Hag as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. United endured a horrendous campaign last season as they missed out on a top-four spot in the Premier League to finish a disappointing sixth while also getting knocked from the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

After sacking former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last season and letting go of Ralf Rangnick, who served as an interim manager after Solskjaer's departure, United are banking on Ten Hag to bail them out of trouble next season and bring an end to the five-year-long trophy drought at the club.

However, with a squad full of glaring holes that need to be filled ahead of the new season, Ten Hag has his task cut out. The Dutch manager has already prioritised midfield as a key area that he would like to reinforce ahead of the new season after the departure of the likes of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard.

While United have already roped in Christian Eriksen on a free signing, they are still in the market for more solid midfielders with Barcelona's Frenkie De Jong on top of their wish list. De Jong has been heavily linked with a move to United this summer and it is believed a deal for the Dutch midfielder is close despite his initial reluctance to leave the La Liga club.

Also Read -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-erling-haaland-misses-a-sitter-for-manchester-city-as-liverpool-win-community-shield-502238">WATCH: Erling Haaland misses a sitter for Manchester City as Liverpool win Community Shield</a>

De Jong is one of the most talented midfielders in the world, who joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2020. However, the Dutch midfielder is reportedly on extraordinarily high wages and Barcelona are looking to offload him to balance their wage bill ahead of the new season.

Barcelona have already made a host of new signings this summer and keeping De Jong on his current wages might pose a problem for them in registering their new signings. If his move to Manchester United materialises, De Jong will join a unique list of footballers who have played for Barcelona and United, two of the most successful clubs in the world.

Here is a look at some of the top footballers who have played for both Barcelona and Man Utd:

Jordi Cruyff

<img alt="Jordi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e27a4a4b-ea58-4671-9de2-e1dcd6bf7185" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jordi.png" />

Jordi Cruyff, the son of Barcelona and Netherland legend Johan Cruyff is one of the handful of footballers to have played for Barcelona and Manchester United in their careers. Jordi, an attacking midfielder started his career at Barcelona where he came up through the ranks before making his first team debut in 1994.

Jordi made 54&nbsp;appereances for Barcelona before joining United in 1996. He scored 8 times in 54 games for United and ledt the club on loan to La Liga side Celta Vigo in 1999 before securing a permanent move to Alaves. Jordi is currently serving as an sporting advisor for his former club Barcelona.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-lot-of-sht-was-said-about-me-robert-lewandowski-lashes-out-at-bayern-munich-after-joining-barcelona-502036">'A lot of sh*t was said about me': Lewandowski lashes out at Bayern Munich after joining Barcelona</a>

Gerard Pique

<img alt="Pique" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3d3605f2-86b1-49c9-98fe-32f884e15e0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pique.png" />

Gerard Pique, who is regarded as one of the finest central defenders of the generation, came through Barcelona's famed La Masia academy. However, he left Barcelona to join Manchester United in 2004 and spent 4 seasons at Old Trafford before returning to Barcelona in 2008.

He established his credentials as one of the best defenders in the world at Barcelona and helped them dominate European football for several years. Pique is still at Barcelona having won 8 La Liga titles, 3 Champions League trophies and 3 UEFA Super Cup titles with the club so far.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

<img alt="zlatan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="285a653e-2513-4f46-97c1-9a28945d3376" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Zlatan%20g.png" />

Zlatan Ibrahimovic too enjoyed successive spells at both FC Barcelona and Manchester United. The Swedish striker, who currently plays for Italian club AC Milan and is still going strong at 40, spent two seasons at United under fomer manager Jose Mourinho from 2016 to 2018.&nbsp;

Ibrahimovic scored 29 goals in 53 appereances for the Red Devils and won the Europa League and the League Cup with the club. The superstar striker had earlier spent two seasons with FC Barcelona as well from 2009 to 2011 where he scored 16 goals in 29 matches in the La Liga before joining AC Milan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-eager-to-exit-man-utd-to-not-lose-ucl-record-to-arch-rival-lionel-messi-report-501718">Cristiano Ronaldo eager to exit Man Utd to not lose UCL record to arch-rival Lionel Messi: Report</a>

Alexis Sanchez

<img alt="Sanchez" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9bc35904-6cdf-4538-88b5-b29918461ec0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sanchez.png" />

Aexis Sanchez might be one of the finest forwards of the current generation but the Chilean had a forgetful spell at Manchester United after signing for the club from Premier League rivals Arsenal in 2018. He managed just 3 goals in 32 league appereances for United in what was a horrendous spell for the Chilean at Old Trafford.

Sanchez, however, enjoyed a successful spell at FC Barcelona from 2011 to 2014. The Chilean forward made 88 appereances for the Spanish club and scored 39 goals while winning a La Liga and a UEFA Super Cup title with the club.

Memphis Depay

<img alt="Memphis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a44f750a-f785-48f5-b0e8-d459f79c7443" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Memphis.png" />

Memphis Depay was considered the next big thing in Dutch football when Manchester United signed him from PSV Eindhoven in 2015. Depay arrived in a deal worth 25 million pounds and signed a 4-year contract at United. He had a decent start before suffering a downfall after infamously asking to wear the iconic no.7 shirt at United.

Depay managed to score only 7 goals in 53 appereances for the club before leaving for French club Lyon in 2016. He scripted his resurgence at Lyon with 76 goas in 178 appereances before FC Barcelona roped him in last year to bolster their attack. However, Depay has failed to impress at Barcelona and might leave the club this summer.

&nbsp;

Manchester United are set to embark on a new era under new manager Erik Ten Hag as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. United endured a horrendous campaign last season as they missed out on a top-four spot in the Premier League to finish a disappointing sixth while also getting knocked from the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Manchester United are set to embark on a new era under new manager Erik Ten Hag as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. United endured a horrendous campaign last season as they missed out on a top-four spot in the Premier League to finish a disappointing sixth while also getting knocked from the Round of 16 in the Champions League. After sacking former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last season and letting go of Ralf Rangnick, who served as an interim manager after Solskjaer's departure, United are banking on Ten Hag to bail them out of trouble next season and bring an end to the five-year-long trophy drought at the club. However, with a squad full of glaring holes that need to be filled ahead of the new season, Ten Hag has his task cut out. The Dutch manager has already prioritised midfield as a key area that he would like to reinforce ahead of the new season after the departure of the likes of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard. While United have already roped in Christian Eriksen on a free signing, they are still in the market for more solid midfielders with Barcelona's Frenkie De Jong on top of their wish list. De Jong has been heavily linked with a move to United this summer and it is believed a deal for the Dutch midfielder is close despite his initial reluctance to leave the La Liga club. Also Read - WATCH: Erling Haaland misses a sitter for Manchester City as Liverpool win Community Shield De Jong is one of the most talented midfielders in the world, who joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2020. However, the Dutch midfielder is reportedly on extraordinarily high wages and Barcelona are looking to offload him to balance their wage bill ahead of the new season. Barcelona have already made a host of new signings this summer and keeping De Jong on his current wages might pose a problem for them in registering their new signings. If his move to Manchester United materialises, De Jong will join a unique list of footballers who have played for Barcelona and United, two of the most successful clubs in the world. Here is a look at some of the top footballers who have played for both Barcelona and Man Utd: Jordi Cruyff Jordi Cruyff, the son of Barcelona and Netherland legend Johan Cruyff is one of the handful of footballers to have played for Barcelona and Manchester United in their careers. Jordi, an attacking midfielder started his career at Barcelona where he came up through the ranks before making his first team debut in 1994. Jordi made 54 appereances for Barcelona before joining United in 1996. He scored 8 times in 54 games for United and ledt the club on loan to La Liga side Celta Vigo in 1999 before securing a permanent move to Alaves. Jordi is currently serving as an sporting advisor for his former club Barcelona. Also Read: 'A lot of sh*t was said about me': Lewandowski lashes out at Bayern Munich after joining Barcelona Gerard Pique Gerard Pique, who is regarded as one of the finest central defenders of the generation, came through Barcelona's famed La Masia academy. However, he left Barcelona to join Manchester United in 2004 and spent 4 seasons at Old Trafford before returning to Barcelona in 2008. He established his credentials as one of the best defenders in the world at Barcelona and helped them dominate European football for several years. Pique is still at Barcelona having won 8 La Liga titles, 3 Champions League trophies and 3 UEFA Super Cup titles with the club so far. Zlatan Ibrahimovic Zlatan Ibrahimovic too enjoyed successive spells at both FC Barcelona and Manchester United. The Swedish striker, who currently plays for Italian club AC Milan and is still going strong at 40, spent two seasons at United under fomer manager Jose Mourinho from 2016 to 2018. Ibrahimovic scored 29 goals in 53 appereances for the Red Devils and won the Europa League and the League Cup with the club. The superstar striker had earlier spent two seasons with FC Barcelona as well from 2009 to 2011 where he scored 16 goals in 29 matches in the La Liga before joining AC Milan. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo eager to exit Man Utd to not lose UCL record to arch-rival Lionel Messi: Report Alexis Sanchez Aexis Sanchez might be one of the finest forwards of the current generation but the Chilean had a forgetful spell at Manchester United after signing for the club from Premier League rivals Arsenal in 2018. He managed just 3 goals in 32 league appereances for United in what was a horrendous spell for the Chilean at Old Trafford. Sanchez, however, enjoyed a successful spell at FC Barcelona from 2011 to 2014. The Chilean forward made 88 appereances for the Spanish club and scored 39 goals while winning a La Liga and a UEFA Super Cup title with the club. Memphis Depay Memphis Depay was considered the next big thing in Dutch football when Manchester United signed him from PSV Eindhoven in 2015. Depay arrived in a deal worth 25 million pounds and signed a 4-year contract at United. He had a decent start before suffering a downfall after infamously asking to wear the iconic no.7 shirt at United. Depay managed to score only 7 goals in 53 appereances for the club before leaving for French club Lyon in 2016. He scripted his resurgence at Lyon with 76 goas in 178 appereances before FC Barcelona roped him in last year to bolster their attack. However, Depay has failed to impress at Barcelona and might leave the club this summer.

Will Frenkie De Jong sign for Manchester United? A look at players who have played for Barcelona and Man Utd

FC Barcelona star Gerard Pique and his singer wife Shakira recently confirmed thy are parting ways,&nbsp;bringing an end to their 12-year relationship. The announcement came after reports had gone viral claiming Pique was allegedly cheating on Shakira with another woman. Amid the allegations of infidelity, a Brazilian model has made some startling revelations against Pique and accused him of sending her lewd text messages behind Shakira's back.

As per a report published by Spanish newspaper Marca, Pique had allegedly sent some illicit messages to Brazilian model Suzy Cortez after meeting her through former FC Barcelona president Sandro Rosell. Rosell served as Barcelona's president from 2010 to 2014. The report also claimed that Pique was in direct contact with Cortez for a significant amount of time.

Cortez recently spoke to El Diario NY, a New York-based paper and revealed she had met Pique through Rosell, who was her friend. She went on to make some explosive revelations about the Spanish defender, alleging that he would regularly ask her when she was coming back to Europe and had also asked her about the size of her butt.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldos-mother-in-tears-after-her-son-scores-in-portugals-4-0-win-vs-switzerland-watch-485929">Ronaldo's mother in tears after her son scores in Portugal's 4-0 win vs Switzerland - Watch</a>

"I was a friend of the former president of Barcelona, Sandro Rosell. When Pique found out, he asked me for my number and sent me a message. When I returned to Brazil, he sent me a message directly on Instagram - which he deleted every day - asking me when would I return to Europe and always asking me how big my butt was," Cortez told El Diario, as quoted by Marca.

Cortez further also questioned the integrity of the entire Barcelona squad at the time and said there were only a couple of players who never sent her anything after meeting with her. The Brazilian model, who is a huge fan of Lionel Messi, said the Argentinian along with his Brazilian teammate Philippe Coutinho were the only players in the Barcelona squad who refrained from sending her lewd texts.

"He [Pique] was the one who sent me the most direct message. The only Barcelona players who never sent me anything were Messi and Coutinho. They are great husbands and respect their wives a lot," claimed Cortez.

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FC Barcelona have been rocked once again by another controversy after allegations on Pique. The Spanish club and the footballer himself are yet to respond to the accusations after his separation from former partner Shakira. The ex-couple has a&nbsp;&nbsp;9-year-old son.

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FC Barcelona star Gerard Pique and his singer wife Shakira recently confirmed thy are parting ways, bringing an end to their 12-year relationship. The announcement came after reports had gone viral claiming Pique was allegedly cheating on Shakira with another woman.

FC Barcelona star Gerard Pique and his singer wife Shakira recently confirmed thy are parting ways, bringing an end to their 12-year relationship. The announcement came after reports had gone viral claiming Pique was allegedly cheating on Shakira with another woman. Amid the allegations of infidelity, a Brazilian model has made some startling revelations against Pique and accused him of sending her lewd text messages behind Shakira's back. As per a report published by Spanish newspaper Marca, Pique had allegedly sent some illicit messages to Brazilian model Suzy Cortez after meeting her through former FC Barcelona president Sandro Rosell. Rosell served as Barcelona's president from 2010 to 2014. The report also claimed that Pique was in direct contact with Cortez for a significant amount of time. Cortez recently spoke to El Diario NY, a New York-based paper and revealed she had met Pique through Rosell, who was her friend. She went on to make some explosive revelations about the Spanish defender, alleging that he would regularly ask her when she was coming back to Europe and had also asked her about the size of her butt. Also Read: Ronaldo's mother in tears after her son scores in Portugal's 4-0 win vs Switzerland - Watch "I was a friend of the former president of Barcelona, Sandro Rosell. When Pique found out, he asked me for my number and sent me a message. When I returned to Brazil, he sent me a message directly on Instagram - which he deleted every day - asking me when would I return to Europe and always asking me how big my butt was," Cortez told El Diario, as quoted by Marca. Cortez further also questioned the integrity of the entire Barcelona squad at the time and said there were only a couple of players who never sent her anything after meeting with her. The Brazilian model, who is a huge fan of Lionel Messi, said the Argentinian along with his Brazilian teammate Philippe Coutinho were the only players in the Barcelona squad who refrained from sending her lewd texts. "He [Pique] was the one who sent me the most direct message. The only Barcelona players who never sent me anything were Messi and Coutinho. They are great husbands and respect their wives a lot," claimed Cortez. Also Read: PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe is world's most valuable player, reveals study FC Barcelona have been rocked once again by another controversy after allegations on Pique. The Spanish club and the footballer himself are yet to respond to the accusations after his separation from former partner Shakira. The ex-couple has a 9-year-old son. ×

Messi & Coutinho only Barca players who didn't text me: Brazilian model makes startling claims about Pique

Colombian singer Shakira and Footballer Gerard Pique have announced their separation amid the cheating rumours. The couple has been together for 12&nbsp;years, however, they never got hitched. In the decade long relationship, Sharika and Gerard welcomed two sons -&nbsp;Milan Piqué Mebarak, 9, &amp; Sasha Piqué Mebarak, 7.

On Saturday, the&nbsp;singer, 45 and former professional footballer, 35 announced their separation in a joint statement.&nbsp;"We regret to confirm that we are separating. For the wellbeing of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy," the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shakira-gerard-pique-to-split-after-12-years-of-relationship-a-history-of-their-love-story-484455">Shakira- Gerard Pique to split after 12 years of relationship? A history of their love story</a>

The shocking news of their split comes after Pique's&nbsp;cheating news took the internet by storm. Many reports suggested that the couple have been living separately for a few months now after Shakira found out about her affair with another woman.&nbsp;Pique has moved out and is living in&nbsp;Barcelona.

However, they&nbsp;have&nbsp;not commented on the cheating news yet.

The couple first met&nbsp;in the year&nbsp;2010 on the set of Shakira`s "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)". The singer sang the official&nbsp;2010 FIFA World Cup anthem and&nbsp;Gerard appeared in the video.

''I wasn't a soccer fan, so I didn't know who he was," Shakira recalled later during an interview. "When I saw the video, I was like, 'Hmm, that one's kind of cute.'And then someone decided to introduce us."

However, after a few months of dating, the couple called it split only to&nbsp;come back stronger for the second time. In the year 2011,&nbsp;the former couple confirmed that they had&nbsp;split in August 2010. However, a few months later, in March of the same year,&nbsp;the couple made their relationship Instagram official.&nbsp;

Shakira also hinted about Pisque cheating in the song ‘Te Felicito’ with Rauw Alejandro. In the song, Shakira sings,&nbsp;“To complete you,&nbsp;I broke into pieces,&nbsp;was warned,&nbsp;but I didn’t listen;&nbsp;I realised that yours is false.''

Meanwhile, The "Hips Don`t Lie" singer is facing a trial over alleged tax fraud charges in Spain after she lost an appeal on May 26. Prosecutors claim she failed to pay up to 14.5 million euros ($15.54 million) in tax on income earned between 2012 and 2014. 
 
(With inputs from the agency)

Colombian singer Shakira and Footballer Gerard Pique have announced their separation amid the cheating rumours. The couple has been together for 12 years, however, they never got hitched.

Colombian singer Shakira and Footballer Gerard Pique have announced their separation amid the cheating rumours. The couple has been together for 12 years, however, they never got hitched. In the decade long relationship, Sharika and Gerard welcomed two sons - Milan Piqué Mebarak, 9, & Sasha Piqué Mebarak, 7. On Saturday, the singer, 45 and former professional footballer, 35 announced their separation in a joint statement. "We regret to confirm that we are separating. For the wellbeing of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy," the statement said. Shakira- Gerard Pique to split after 12 years of relationship? A history of their love story The shocking news of their split comes after Pique's cheating news took the internet by storm. Many reports suggested that the couple have been living separately for a few months now after Shakira found out about her affair with another woman. Pique has moved out and is living in Barcelona. However, they have not commented on the cheating news yet. The couple first met in the year 2010 on the set of Shakira`s "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)". The singer sang the official 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem and Gerard appeared in the video. ''I wasn't a soccer fan, so I didn't know who he was," Shakira recalled later during an interview. "When I saw the video, I was like, 'Hmm, that one's kind of cute.'And then someone decided to introduce us." However, after a few months of dating, the couple called it split only to come back stronger for the second time. In the year 2011, the former couple confirmed that they had split in August 2010. However, a few months later, in March of the same year, the couple made their relationship Instagram official. Shakira also hinted about Pisque cheating in the song ‘Te Felicito’ with Rauw Alejandro. In the song, Shakira sings, “To complete you, I broke into pieces, was warned, but I didn’t listen; I realised that yours is false.'' Meanwhile, The "Hips Don`t Lie" singer is facing a trial over alleged tax fraud charges in Spain after she lost an appeal on May 26. Prosecutors claim she failed to pay up to 14.5 million euros ($15.54 million) in tax on income earned between 2012 and 2014. (With inputs from the agency)

Shakira confirms her separation from Gerard Pique amid cheating rumors

One of the most celebrated couples of our time, singer Shakira and former footballer Gerard Piqué have shared a beautiful, strong relationship so far. The couple who share two sons together is reportedly living separately for the past few months. Multiple reports stated that Pique has moved to his bachelor pad in Barcelona after Shakira found out about his affair with another woman.&nbsp; 
 
The couple who met during the FIFA World Cup in 2010 did part ways once before only to get back together and build a strong relationship. While the world waits for an official word from the two celebrities, here is a look back at their love story which is now facing stormy weather.&nbsp; 
 
How did Shakira and Gerard first meet? 
 
In 2010, Shakira and Gerard Piqué first met on the set of the singer's music video for 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)". If one can recall, Shakira had sung the official 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem, and Gerard had appeared in the video and led his team to a world cup victory that year.&nbsp; 
 
"I wasn't a soccer fan, so I didn't know who he was," Shakira recalled later during an interview. "When I saw the video, I was like, 'Hmm, that one's kind of cute.'And then someone decided to introduce us." 
 
"It all started when we were together in South Africa and I wrote to her," Piqué told&nbsp;TV3 in 2016. "She was already there because she sang in the opening ceremony, and I asked her what the weather was like. It's the typical stupid question, and the normal answer is to tell me to bring a jacket," he explained. "But she started telling me what the weather was, like, every minute, and it got to the point where I told her we (Spain) would have to get to the World Cup final to see her again—she was singing at the final."

Brief break up and then making it official&nbsp;

2011: The pair in January confirmed for the first time their relationship but added that they had split in August 2010. The two issued a joint statement, which said, "Throughout this time we have continued to work together hand in hand, have remained close and have kept the details absolutely private until now." A month later, the two were photographed leaving a restaurant in Barcelona, hand-in-hand. The couple made their relationship Instagram official in March the same, year. &nbsp;In May, Gerard kissed Shakira on stage at her Barcelona concert.

Baby on the way!&nbsp; 
 
In 2012, the couple became red carpet official as they arrived together for FIFA Ballon d'Or Gala in Switzerland. 
 
The same year, in September Shakira&nbsp;took to her official website to confirm her pregnancy, "As some of you may know, Gerard and I are very happy awaiting the arrival of our first baby! At the time we have decided to give priority to this unique moment in our lives," she wrote.

In January 2013, Shakira and Gerard announced the arrival of their first born, baby boy Milan Piqué Mebarak. "The name Milan, means dear, loving and gracious in Slavic; in Ancient Roman, eager and laborious; and in Sanskrit, unification," she wrote on her website. "Just like his father, baby Milan became a member of FC Barcelona at birth."

Shakira later told a magazine that Gerard was a hands-on father and help her in raising their son. "Thank God the father is very involved. He has been amazing. The baby spends as much time with me as he does with his dad. He's the kind of dad who's full hands-on."

Marriage on the cards?

In 2014, when Shakira was asked about the couple's plans to get married, she said, "We already have what's essential, you know? We have a union, a love for each other, and a baby. I think that those aspects of our relationship are already established, and marriage is not going to change them. But if I'm ever going to get married, he's the one."

At the beginning of 2015, the couple confirmed to Press and on Instagram that they would be expecting another baby boy. Subsequently, in late January they welcomed their second Sasha Piqué Mebarak. "The name Sasha is of Greek and Russian descent and means 'defender of mankind' and 'warrior,'" she wrote on Instagram.

2017: Shakira released the song 'Me Enamoré,' which means "I feel in love," and is a tribute to finding love with Piqué in 2010.&nbsp;

The same year, the singer also suffered a haemorrhage in her vocal cords, so her speaking was limited.&nbsp; 
 
In 2018, Gerard Piqué announced his retirement from professional soccer. Shakira shared a message of support for her partner on Instagram. “Love, finished the stage that we will always keep in our hearts,” she wrote next to a picture of Gerard. “One of the happiest moments of my life has also been seeing you win in 2010 with the national team and celebrate with Spain champions! Shak.” 
 
In 2022, reports of infidelity surfaced and Gerard was seen partying on multiple nights in Barcelona with friends and not Shakira. Shakira reportedly also reportedly hinted about the crack in their relationship in the song ‘Te Felicito’ with Rauw Alejandro.

One of the most celebrated couples of our time, singer Shakira and former footballer Gerard Piqué have shared a beautiful, strong relationship so far. The couple who share two sons together is reportedly living separately for the past few months.

One of the most celebrated couples of our time, singer Shakira and former footballer Gerard Piqué have shared a beautiful, strong relationship so far. The couple who share two sons together is reportedly living separately for the past few months. Multiple reports stated that Pique has moved to his bachelor pad in Barcelona after Shakira found out about his affair with another woman. The couple who met during the FIFA World Cup in 2010 did part ways once before only to get back together and build a strong relationship. While the world waits for an official word from the two celebrities, here is a look back at their love story which is now facing stormy weather. How did Shakira and Gerard first meet? In 2010, Shakira and Gerard Piqué first met on the set of the singer's music video for 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)". If one can recall, Shakira had sung the official 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem, and Gerard had appeared in the video and led his team to a world cup victory that year. "I wasn't a soccer fan, so I didn't know who he was," Shakira recalled later during an interview. "When I saw the video, I was like, 'Hmm, that one's kind of cute.'And then someone decided to introduce us." "It all started when we were together in South Africa and I wrote to her," Piqué told TV3 in 2016. "She was already there because she sang in the opening ceremony, and I asked her what the weather was like. It's the typical stupid question, and the normal answer is to tell me to bring a jacket," he explained. "But she started telling me what the weather was, like, every minute, and it got to the point where I told her we (Spain) would have to get to the World Cup final to see her again—she was singing at the final." Brief break up and then making it official 2011: The pair in January confirmed for the first time their relationship but added that they had split in August 2010. The two issued a joint statement, which said, "Throughout this time we have continued to work together hand in hand, have remained close and have kept the details absolutely private until now." A month later, the two were photographed leaving a restaurant in Barcelona, hand-in-hand. The couple made their relationship Instagram official in March the same, year. In May, Gerard kissed Shakira on stage at her Barcelona concert. Baby on the way! In 2012, the couple became red carpet official as they arrived together for FIFA Ballon d'Or Gala in Switzerland. The same year, in September Shakira took to her official website to confirm her pregnancy, "As some of you may know, Gerard and I are very happy awaiting the arrival of our first baby! At the time we have decided to give priority to this unique moment in our lives," she wrote. In January 2013, Shakira and Gerard announced the arrival of their first born, baby boy Milan Piqué Mebarak. "The name Milan, means dear, loving and gracious in Slavic; in Ancient Roman, eager and laborious; and in Sanskrit, unification," she wrote on her website. "Just like his father, baby Milan became a member of FC Barcelona at birth." Shakira later told a magazine that Gerard was a hands-on father and help her in raising their son. "Thank God the father is very involved. He has been amazing. The baby spends as much time with me as he does with his dad. He's the kind of dad who's full hands-on." Marriage on the cards? In 2014, when Shakira was asked about the couple's plans to get married, she said, "We already have what's essential, you know? We have a union, a love for each other, and a baby. I think that those aspects of our relationship are already established, and marriage is not going to change them. But if I'm ever going to get married, he's the one." At the beginning of 2015, the couple confirmed to Press and on Instagram that they would be expecting another baby boy. Subsequently, in late January they welcomed their second Sasha Piqué Mebarak. "The name Sasha is of Greek and Russian descent and means 'defender of mankind' and 'warrior,'" she wrote on Instagram. 2017: Shakira released the song 'Me Enamoré,' which means "I feel in love," and is a tribute to finding love with Piqué in 2010. The same year, the singer also suffered a haemorrhage in her vocal cords, so her speaking was limited. In 2018, Gerard Piqué announced his retirement from professional soccer. Shakira shared a message of support for her partner on Instagram. “Love, finished the stage that we will always keep in our hearts,” she wrote next to a picture of Gerard. “One of the happiest moments of my life has also been seeing you win in 2010 with the national team and celebrate with Spain champions! Shak.” In 2022, reports of infidelity surfaced and Gerard was seen partying on multiple nights in Barcelona with friends and not Shakira. Shakira reportedly also reportedly hinted about the crack in their relationship in the song ‘Te Felicito’ with Rauw Alejandro.

Shakira- Gerard Pique to split after 12 years of relationship? A history of their love story

Gerard Pique talked about his relationship with former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola. He revealed that his ties with the Spaniard changed when he started dating Colombian singer Shakira.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-retire-at-barcelona-gerard-pique-drops-a-major-hint-on-his-future-411579" hreflang="en">'I will retire at Barcelona': Gerard Pique drops a major hint on his future</a>

The star defender returned to Barcelona from Manchester United in 2008 and went on to win three LaLiga titles and had two Champions League cups in the next four years under Guardiola.

But Pique's ties with Guardiola had taken a hit in his (Pep Guardiola) last year as Barca coach.&nbsp;

"We reached a moment of tension with him, not just me but the dressing room in general," Pique told La Sotana on Monday.

"The rivalry with Jose Mourinho [at Real Madrid] wore us down a lot. Pep wanted absolute control over everything that was happening.

"I started dating Shakira and our relationship changed. Now, the relationship is perfect. But there was a lot of pressure on me then. I felt like I had to do everything in training perfectly.

"If there was a moment I thought about leaving Barca, it was that [2011-12] season. I struggled in that last season with Guardiola."

Gerard Pique talked about his relationship with former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola. He revealed that his ties with the Spaniard changed when he started dating Colombian singer Shakira.

Gerard Pique talked about his relationship with former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola. He revealed that his ties with the Spaniard changed when he started dating Colombian singer Shakira. ALSO READ: 'I will retire at Barcelona': Gerard Pique drops a major hint on his future The star defender returned to Barcelona from Manchester United in 2008 and went on to win three LaLiga titles and had two Champions League cups in the next four years under Guardiola. But Pique's ties with Guardiola had taken a hit in his (Pep Guardiola) last year as Barca coach. "We reached a moment of tension with him, not just me but the dressing room in general," Pique told La Sotana on Monday. "The rivalry with Jose Mourinho [at Real Madrid] wore us down a lot. Pep wanted absolute control over everything that was happening. "I started dating Shakira and our relationship changed. Now, the relationship is perfect. But there was a lot of pressure on me then. I felt like I had to do everything in training perfectly. "If there was a moment I thought about leaving Barca, it was that [2011-12] season. I struggled in that last season with Guardiola."

'I started dating Shakira and our relationship changed': Gerard Pique on Pep Guardiola

Gerard Pique has dropped a major hint that the 2021-2022 season could be his final season, as the star defender wants to retire as a Barcelona player.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-southgate-open-minded-about-fifas-biennial-world-cup-proposal-411336" hreflang="en">Gareth Southgate open-minded about FIFA's biennial World Cup proposal</a>

In a conversation with La Sotana, Pique confirmed that he will retire at Barcelona and also dropped a hint that this season could be last donning the Blaugrana jersey.&nbsp;

"I will retire at Barca."

"This could be the last season, yes. I go year after year, so I cannot guarantee that I will be there next season. The day I feel that I can’t help Barca anymore, I will retire."

Pique, who returned to Camp Nou in 2008, has made 568 appearances for Barcelona. Several Barcelona fans also look at Gerard Pique as the club's future president.&nbsp;

But, he was asked if Bartomeu's tenure as the club's president was the worst. He replied: "I don’t know if he was the worst, but for me, during my time, he’s on the list for sure.&nbsp;

"We all make mistakes, but in his time Barca weren’t where they should be."

The Catalan giants have witnessed two high profile departures (Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezemann) but the club has found new stars like Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati to carry on the club's glory.&nbsp;

Gerard Pique has dropped a major hint that the 2021-2022 season could be his final season, as the star defender wants to retire as a Barcelona player. ALSO READ: Gareth Southgate open-minded about FIFA's biennial World Cup proposal In a conversation with La Sotana, Pique confirmed that he will retire at Barcelona and also dropped a hint that this season could be last donning the Blaugrana jersey.

Gerard Pique has dropped a major hint that the 2021-2022 season could be his final season, as the star defender wants to retire as a Barcelona player. ALSO READ: Gareth Southgate open-minded about FIFA's biennial World Cup proposal In a conversation with La Sotana, Pique confirmed that he will retire at Barcelona and also dropped a hint that this season could be last donning the Blaugrana jersey. "I will retire at Barca." "This could be the last season, yes. I go year after year, so I cannot guarantee that I will be there next season. The day I feel that I can’t help Barca anymore, I will retire." Pique, who returned to Camp Nou in 2008, has made 568 appearances for Barcelona. Several Barcelona fans also look at Gerard Pique as the club's future president. But, he was asked if Bartomeu's tenure as the club's president was the worst. He replied: "I don’t know if he was the worst, but for me, during my time, he’s on the list for sure. "We all make mistakes, but in his time Barca weren’t where they should be." The Catalan giants have witnessed two high profile departures (Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezemann) but the club has found new stars like Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati to carry on the club's glory.

'I will retire at Barcelona': Gerard Pique drops a major hint on his future

After beating Juventus 3-0 in the Joan Gamper Trophy, FC Barcelona's Gerard Pique said the team felt inadequate without having Lionel Messi around although the club will keep on pushing ahead.&nbsp;

Pique, the Barcelona defender, said the team feels a bit broken subsequent to losing the 'best player ever', Lionel Messi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-i-am-not-ready-tearful-lionel-messi-breaks-down-while-bidding-barcelona-good-bye-watch-403985" hreflang="en">Football: 'I am not ready': 'Tearful' Lionel Messi breaks down while bidding Barcelona good bye - WATCH</a>

"The team was honestly a bit broken because of Messi's departure, we will lose magic in attack, but we have to move forward, the fans expect a lot from us. We lost&nbsp;the best player of all time. It has hurt us and it hurt him too," he said.

"I don't know the whole story, the two parties have said that it has been a matter of numbers.&nbsp;The management of the last years hasn't helped, but history shows that we will get up," he added.

In spite of losing Lionel Messi this mid year, Gerard Pique said they have to play for the Barcelona fans who will keep on supporting the club regardless of the exit of six-time Ballon d'Or champion.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Football: Paris Saint-Germain is a 'possibility', admits Lionel Messi">Football: Paris Saint-Germain is a 'possibility', admits Lionel Messi</a>

“People really want to come to the stadium and we have to cheer the fans. We have to start winning and give them nice things. We need the fans with us.”

Barcelona played against Juventus after the team went to Lionel Messi's last press conference. The Catalan goliaths recorded a determined 3-0 win over Juventus with goals from Memphis Depay, Martin Braithwaite and Riqui Puig.

After beating Juventus 3-0 in the Joan Gamper Trophy, FC Barcelona's Gerard Pique said the team felt inadequate without having Lionel Messi around although the club will keep on pushing ahead.

After beating Juventus 3-0 in the Joan Gamper Trophy, FC Barcelona's Gerard Pique said the team felt inadequate without having Lionel Messi around although the club will keep on pushing ahead. Pique, the Barcelona defender, said the team feels a bit broken subsequent to losing the 'best player ever', Lionel Messi. ALSO READ: Football: 'I am not ready': 'Tearful' Lionel Messi breaks down while bidding Barcelona good bye - WATCH "The team was honestly a bit broken because of Messi's departure, we will lose magic in attack, but we have to move forward, the fans expect a lot from us. We lost the best player of all time. It has hurt us and it hurt him too," he said. "I don't know the whole story, the two parties have said that it has been a matter of numbers. The management of the last years hasn't helped, but history shows that we will get up," he added. In spite of losing Lionel Messi this mid year, Gerard Pique said they have to play for the Barcelona fans who will keep on supporting the club regardless of the exit of six-time Ballon d'Or champion. ALSO READ: Football: Paris Saint-Germain is a 'possibility', admits Lionel Messi “People really want to come to the stadium and we have to cheer the fans. We have to start winning and give them nice things. We need the fans with us.” Barcelona played against Juventus after the team went to Lionel Messi's last press conference. The Catalan goliaths recorded a determined 3-0 win over Juventus with goals from Memphis Depay, Martin Braithwaite and Riqui Puig.

Football: 'We lost the best player of all time,' Gerard Pique on Lionel Messi's exit from FC Barcelona

Initially silent on the shocking exit of Lionel Messi, the Barcelona players have now started bidding emotional farewells to the Argentinian great. Messi, who had joined Barcelona aged 13, was expected to sign a new five-year deal. However, in turn of events, the La Liga club announced that the negotiations fell apart due to "financial and structural obstacles" to the renewal of the deal.&nbsp;

Players of the current Barcelona team and also some of the former Barca players&nbsp;have sent their wishes with emotional posts on social media. Sergio Busquets, Gerard Pique, Sergi Roberto, Jordi Alba were among the first ones to share&nbsp;their thoughts and say goodbye to the forward. French duo Ousmane Dembele and Antoine Griezmann also wished Messi for his future.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/lionel-messi-leaves-barcelona-a-record-breaking-career-in-pictures-psg-403520">Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures</a>

On one hand, Alba thanked Messi for "everything you [Messi] have given to the club", Pique went on to say that "nothing will ever be the same". See some of the reactions here:&nbsp;

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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/5sergiob?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@5sergiob</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/fZ588SZQam">pic.twitter.com/fZ588SZQam</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423705436595838978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/SergiRoberto10?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SergiRoberto10</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/eBOcAAq7o5">pic.twitter.com/eBOcAAq7o5</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423758278400561158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/3gerardpique?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@3gerardpique</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/4WoWw5nG0R">pic.twitter.com/4WoWw5nG0R</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423739403386593281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoGriezmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AntoGriezmann</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/QO30UEBeEo">pic.twitter.com/QO30UEBeEo</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423773377144270854?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/Miralem_Pjanic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Miralem_Pjanic</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/uukWiQZuxY">pic.twitter.com/uukWiQZuxY</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423788477045424138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Coutinho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phil_Coutinho</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/pZLxpRTQqT">pic.twitter.com/pZLxpRTQqT</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423811127243329537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/really-really-sad-lionel-messis-exit-sends-shockwave-through-barcelona-403443">'Really, really sad': Lionel Messi's exit sends shockwave through Barcelona</a>

In a lengthy post, Alba wrote, "What a privilege to have been able to share these 9 seasons together. What beautiful experiences we have enjoyed and how we have overcome difficult moments. I was lucky enough to be able to live your first goal in 2005 against Albacete at the Camp Nou and I never thought that one day we would have that complicity that with just a glance we understood each other. How we have enjoyed on the field with your passes in the race and my back pass, how well it worked for us.

"How am I going to miss it!

"You are not only the greatest player in the history of football, but you are also an exceptional human being. Friend, thank you from the heart for everything you have given to the club, for your friendship, for your support in the gray days, for the great moments lived that will remain forever in our memory. I wish you and your whole family the best in your new adventure. A big hug, I love you brother."

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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/JordiAlba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JordiAlba</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/ML4QTCuim1">pic.twitter.com/ML4QTCuim1</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423796034115936260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Messi is the club's all-time top scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions. He has created several records while playing alongside greats like Xavi and&nbsp;Carles Puyol&nbsp;at the beginning of his career.&nbsp;

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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From Xavi to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/UO3ChoDgBS">pic.twitter.com/UO3ChoDgBS</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423724304110284803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/Carles5puyol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Carles5puyol</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/TCmlQ6IlIf">pic.twitter.com/TCmlQ6IlIf</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423735629641392135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Young players like Riqui Puig and Ansu Fati also thanked Messi - the "best player in the world" and how he encouraged them.&nbsp;

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💙❤️ Blaugrana Love 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/ANSUFATI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANSUFATI</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/J2XaaYL1KX">pic.twitter.com/J2XaaYL1KX</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423690333389475846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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From <a href="https://twitter.com/RiquiPuig?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RiquiPuig</a> to Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>: <a href="https://t.co/dNDG7nPC8o">pic.twitter.com/dNDG7nPC8o</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1423743178532868096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Initially silent on the shocking exit of Lionel Messi, the Barcelona players have now started bidding emotional farewells to the Argentinian great. Messi, who had joined Barcelona aged 13, was expected to sign a new five-year deal.

Initially silent on the shocking exit of Lionel Messi, the Barcelona players have now started bidding emotional farewells to the Argentinian great. Messi, who had joined Barcelona aged 13, was expected to sign a new five-year deal. However, in turn of events, the La Liga club announced that the negotiations fell apart due to "financial and structural obstacles" to the renewal of the deal. Players of the current Barcelona team and also some of the former Barca players have sent their wishes with emotional posts on social media. Sergio Busquets, Gerard Pique, Sergi Roberto, Jordi Alba were among the first ones to share their thoughts and say goodbye to the forward. French duo Ousmane Dembele and Antoine Griezmann also wished Messi for his future. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures On one hand, Alba thanked Messi for "everything you [Messi] have given to the club", Pique went on to say that "nothing will ever be the same". See some of the reactions here: 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @5sergiob to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/fZ588SZQam — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @SergiRoberto10 to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/eBOcAAq7o5 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @3gerardpique to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/4WoWw5nG0R — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @AntoGriezmann to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/QO30UEBeEo — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @Miralem_Pjanic to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/uukWiQZuxY — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @Phil_Coutinho to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/pZLxpRTQqT — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 7, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Really, really sad': Lionel Messi's exit sends shockwave through Barcelona In a lengthy post, Alba wrote, "What a privilege to have been able to share these 9 seasons together. What beautiful experiences we have enjoyed and how we have overcome difficult moments. I was lucky enough to be able to live your first goal in 2005 against Albacete at the Camp Nou and I never thought that one day we would have that complicity that with just a glance we understood each other. How we have enjoyed on the field with your passes in the race and my back pass, how well it worked for us. "How am I going to miss it! "You are not only the greatest player in the history of football, but you are also an exceptional human being. Friend, thank you from the heart for everything you have given to the club, for your friendship, for your support in the gray days, for the great moments lived that will remain forever in our memory. I wish you and your whole family the best in your new adventure. A big hug, I love you brother." 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @JordiAlba to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/ML4QTCuim1 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 7, 2021 × Messi is the club's all-time top scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions. He has created several records while playing alongside greats like Xavi and Carles Puyol at the beginning of his career. 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From Xavi to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/UO3ChoDgBS — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @Carles5puyol to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/TCmlQ6IlIf — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × Young players like Riqui Puig and Ansu Fati also thanked Messi - the "best player in the world" and how he encouraged them. 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @ANSUFATI to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/J2XaaYL1KX — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 × 💙❤️ Blaugrana Love From @RiquiPuig to Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/dNDG7nPC8o — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 6, 2021 ×

'Nothing will be same': Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and other Barcelona players bid farewell to Lionel Messi

Barcelona's worst ever defeat in Europe, an 8-2 mauling at the hands of Bayern Munich, will signal the end of Quique Setien as coach but it feels like the end of more than that.&nbsp;

Setien may not even survive the weekend but the fact a second sacking in eight months would be the least of Barca's worries says it all.&nbsp;

"It's too soon to say if I will continue or not and it doesn't depend on me," said Setien.

"The club needs changes," said Gerard Pique. "Nobody is untouchable, least of all me. Fresh blood is needed to change this. We've hit rock bottom."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-compare-lewandowski-and-messi-bayern-boss-flick-320410">Also read:&nbsp;'You can't compare Lewandowski and Messi' - Bayern boss Flick</a>

Lionel Messi was supposed to win it alone, the Argentinian charged with somehow masking the failings of an entire club against the most formidable team in Europe.&nbsp;

It was a desperate hope, swiftly dashed by a ruthless Bayern side, whose demolition exposed Barcelona's ageing team for what Messi has been saying all along: they are simply not good enough.&nbsp;

He said it in February and again in July, when a rant in the aftermath of handing Real Madrid the title turned into a brutal, but honest, assessment of their season.&nbsp;

Messi saw the fall coming but it was too late to do anything about it and the question now is whether he wants to be part of the process of recovery and renewal.&nbsp;

Most have assumed it would take something cataclysmic for Messi to leave but at an elite football club, what could be worse than this?&nbsp;

This was more painful than the capitulations against Roma and Liverpool, when carelessness and fragility deprived Barcelona of a genuine chance to lift the Champions League trophy.&nbsp;

But they were shocks because Barca were contenders. This time, nobody expected them to beat Bayern. Many expected a thrashing but few could have predicted the severity of it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-sign-willian-on-free-transfer-320476">Also read:&nbsp;Arsenal sign Willian on free transfer</a>

The humiliations started in the fourth minute and kept coming until the 89th.&nbsp;

They began even before kick-off when the starting line-ups were announced, with three Barca signings bought for more than 100 million euros each all sitting on the bench.&nbsp;

One of them, Philippe Coutinho, was on Bayern's bench and he came on to score twice against his parent club, the first even seemingly with reluctance. &nbsp;

Brave decisions await 
Messi, at 33, knows his end is near but he will choose when it comes. Others may not be so lucky, with Pique and Luis Suarez also 33 and Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba 31.&nbsp;

All of them have played a part in Barca's golden era but that era feels a long time ago now and if this team is to regenerate, brave decisions will have to be made.&nbsp;

Frenkie de Jong, Ansu Fati and Riqui Puig are the future, smothered this season by the failures of those ahead of them and perhaps ready to be trusted to lead.&nbsp;

If it's the end of an era for Barcelona, it is for Spain too. The national team may have long been overtaken but Messi kept Barca challenging while the Champions League became the kingdom of Real Madrid.

Not anymore, this the first year since 2007 that the semi-finals will be without a Spanish club, and the first since 2005 without either Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.&nbsp;

Who will lead the Barca revolution remains to be seen, with Xavi Hernandez, Mauricio Pochettino and Ronald Koeman all sufficiently put off that they rejected the chance in January. Will they be any keener now?&nbsp;

Barcelona will not have the money to make big additions, meaning they may have to look within.&nbsp;

But that would be a long-term project, which the club cannot guarantee either given their presidential elections are due in 2021. A new regime could well bring a new coach too.&nbsp;

A year might even feel like a long time for the current president Josep Maria Bartomeu, who would not rule out the elections being brought forward on Friday.&nbsp;

"Today was a disaster," he said. "Some decisions we had already thought to take and others we will think about in the next few days."

Since 2014, his board have stumbled from blunder to blunder, all the while alienating the dressing room and driving this period of chaos and decline.&nbsp;

It began with Neymar leaving and never being replaced, the frantic attempts to bring him back then failing because the funds had been squandered elsewhere.&nbsp;

And it ended with a public humiliation that Messi saw coming. It had been coming for a long time.

Barcelona's worst ever defeat in Europe, an 8-2 mauling at the hands of Bayern Munich, will signal the end of Quique Setien as coach but it feels like the end of more than that.

Barcelona's worst ever defeat in Europe, an 8-2 mauling at the hands of Bayern Munich, will signal the end of Quique Setien as coach but it feels like the end of more than that. Setien may not even survive the weekend but the fact a second sacking in eight months would be the least of Barca's worries says it all. "It's too soon to say if I will continue or not and it doesn't depend on me," said Setien. "The club needs changes," said Gerard Pique. "Nobody is untouchable, least of all me. Fresh blood is needed to change this. We've hit rock bottom." Also read: 'You can't compare Lewandowski and Messi' - Bayern boss Flick Lionel Messi was supposed to win it alone, the Argentinian charged with somehow masking the failings of an entire club against the most formidable team in Europe. It was a desperate hope, swiftly dashed by a ruthless Bayern side, whose demolition exposed Barcelona's ageing team for what Messi has been saying all along: they are simply not good enough. He said it in February and again in July, when a rant in the aftermath of handing Real Madrid the title turned into a brutal, but honest, assessment of their season. Messi saw the fall coming but it was too late to do anything about it and the question now is whether he wants to be part of the process of recovery and renewal. Most have assumed it would take something cataclysmic for Messi to leave but at an elite football club, what could be worse than this? This was more painful than the capitulations against Roma and Liverpool, when carelessness and fragility deprived Barcelona of a genuine chance to lift the Champions League trophy. But they were shocks because Barca were contenders. This time, nobody expected them to beat Bayern. Many expected a thrashing but few could have predicted the severity of it. Also read: Arsenal sign Willian on free transfer The humiliations started in the fourth minute and kept coming until the 89th. They began even before kick-off when the starting line-ups were announced, with three Barca signings bought for more than 100 million euros each all sitting on the bench. One of them, Philippe Coutinho, was on Bayern's bench and he came on to score twice against his parent club, the first even seemingly with reluctance. Brave decisions await Messi, at 33, knows his end is near but he will choose when it comes. Others may not be so lucky, with Pique and Luis Suarez also 33 and Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba 31. All of them have played a part in Barca's golden era but that era feels a long time ago now and if this team is to regenerate, brave decisions will have to be made. Frenkie de Jong, Ansu Fati and Riqui Puig are the future, smothered this season by the failures of those ahead of them and perhaps ready to be trusted to lead. If it's the end of an era for Barcelona, it is for Spain too. The national team may have long been overtaken but Messi kept Barca challenging while the Champions League became the kingdom of Real Madrid. Not anymore, this the first year since 2007 that the semi-finals will be without a Spanish club, and the first since 2005 without either Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. Who will lead the Barca revolution remains to be seen, with Xavi Hernandez, Mauricio Pochettino and Ronald Koeman all sufficiently put off that they rejected the chance in January. Will they be any keener now? Barcelona will not have the money to make big additions, meaning they may have to look within. But that would be a long-term project, which the club cannot guarantee either given their presidential elections are due in 2021. A new regime could well bring a new coach too. A year might even feel like a long time for the current president Josep Maria Bartomeu, who would not rule out the elections being brought forward on Friday. "Today was a disaster," he said. "Some decisions we had already thought to take and others we will think about in the next few days." Since 2014, his board have stumbled from blunder to blunder, all the while alienating the dressing room and driving this period of chaos and decline. It began with Neymar leaving and never being replaced, the frantic attempts to bring him back then failing because the funds had been squandered elsewhere. And it ended with a public humiliation that Messi saw coming. It had been coming for a long time.

End of an era as Barca humiliation makes revolution the only option

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday.

Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend.

After their emphatic 3-0 win over Valencia on Thursday, Zinedine Zidane's side will move level on points with the Catalans if they beat Real Sociedad on Sunday and above them due to their superior record head-to-head.&nbsp;

"Seeing what we've done in the last two rounds, it's going to be very difficult to win this league," said a despondent Pique afterwards.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/benzema-and-asensio-volleys-fire-madrid-to-valencia-victory-306948" hreflang="en">Benzema and Asensio volleys fire Madrid to Valencia victory</a>

Sevilla, in third, and Valencia, in eighth, always looked capable of shifting the dynamic at the top of the table, with Madrid capitalising to climb back to the summit for the first time since they beat&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;on March 1.

Asked about Pique's analysis,&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;coach Quique Setien said: "I think it comes from frustration. I am optimistic. I think it will be tough for anyone to take maximum points."

A valuable point for Sevilla, meanwhile, gives them a five-point cushion over Getafe in fifth, albeit having played a game more.

Barca could have few complaints at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.&nbsp;

They never really troubled Sevilla for any prolonged period and the closest Lionel Messi came to scoring the 700th goal of his career were a pair of free-kicks tipped over.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-ordered-to-pay-67-million-euros-to-barcelona-307146" hreflang="en">Neymar ordered to pay 6.7 million euros to Barcelona</a>

The sight of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen jogging up for a late corner demonstrated how big a blow they considered dropping points to be.&nbsp;

Yet Real Sociedad are still in the hunt for Champions League qualification and will offer Madrid no guarantees on Sunday while games against Getafe, Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal mean there are still plenty of hurdles for Zidane's team to overcome.&nbsp;

Barcelona&nbsp;though would appear to have the tougher run-in, with Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Villarreal and local rivals Espanyol coming up.

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after Barcelona were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday. Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend.

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after Barcelona were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday. Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend. After their emphatic 3-0 win over Valencia on Thursday, Zinedine Zidane's side will move level on points with the Catalans if they beat Real Sociedad on Sunday and above them due to their superior record head-to-head. "Seeing what we've done in the last two rounds, it's going to be very difficult to win this league," said a despondent Pique afterwards. Also read: Benzema and Asensio volleys fire Madrid to Valencia victory Sevilla, in third, and Valencia, in eighth, always looked capable of shifting the dynamic at the top of the table, with Madrid capitalising to climb back to the summit for the first time since they beat Barcelona on March 1. Asked about Pique's analysis, Barcelona coach Quique Setien said: "I think it comes from frustration. I am optimistic. I think it will be tough for anyone to take maximum points." A valuable point for Sevilla, meanwhile, gives them a five-point cushion over Getafe in fifth, albeit having played a game more. Barca could have few complaints at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. They never really troubled Sevilla for any prolonged period and the closest Lionel Messi came to scoring the 700th goal of his career were a pair of free-kicks tipped over. Also read: Neymar ordered to pay 6.7 million euros to Barcelona The sight of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen jogging up for a late corner demonstrated how big a blow they considered dropping points to be. Yet Real Sociedad are still in the hunt for Champions League qualification and will offer Madrid no guarantees on Sunday while games against Getafe, Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal mean there are still plenty of hurdles for Zidane's team to overcome. Barcelona though would appear to have the tougher run-in, with Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Villarreal and local rivals Espanyol coming up.

Gerard Pique pessimistic over Barcelona title bid after Sevilla draw

Barcelona were so keen to bring Neymar back from Paris St Germain that the players were ready to accept delays to salary payments in order for the club to afford the Brazilian, defender Gerard Pique has revealed.

Barca spent the bulk of the last transfer window trying to lure Neymar back from PSG, two years after he left the Catalans for a world record transfer fee of 222 million euros.

But the two clubs failed to reach an agreement before September's transfer deadline.

The Catalans, who had already signed French forward Antoine Griezmann for 120 million euros and Frenkie de Jong for 75 million, were constricted in their pursuit for Neymar by UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations.

The rules, designed to prevent the sport’s richest owners from crushing their rivals, oblige clubs to be transparent about revenues and broadly balance them against expenditure. They also include a limit on the losses clubs can incur.

"We told (club president Josep Maria) Bartomeu that if it was necessary to delay payments in our contracts to meet Financial Fair Play regulations and sign Neymar we would do it," Pique told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser on Thursday.

"We were ready to adjust our contracts. We weren't going to contribute money, but we were going to make things easier by allowing some payments to be made in the second or third year instead of the first."

The Brazilian sat out the start of the season while he waited for the transfer saga to end but returned to the team in September, scoring four goals in five Ligue 1 appearances.

He is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-neymar-sidelined-for-four-weeks-paris-st-germain-256001">currently sidelined </a>with a groin injury sustained on international duty with Brazil.

Barcelona were so keen to bring Neymar back from Paris St Germain that the players were ready to accept delays to salary payments in order for the club to afford the Brazilian, defender Gerard Pique has revealed.

Barcelona were so keen to bring Neymar back from Paris St Germain that the players were ready to accept delays to salary payments in order for the club to afford the Brazilian, defender Gerard Pique has revealed. Barca spent the bulk of the last transfer window trying to lure Neymar back from PSG, two years after he left the Catalans for a world record transfer fee of 222 million euros. But the two clubs failed to reach an agreement before September's transfer deadline. The Catalans, who had already signed French forward Antoine Griezmann for 120 million euros and Frenkie de Jong for 75 million, were constricted in their pursuit for Neymar by UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations. The rules, designed to prevent the sport’s richest owners from crushing their rivals, oblige clubs to be transparent about revenues and broadly balance them against expenditure. They also include a limit on the losses clubs can incur. "We told (club president Josep Maria) Bartomeu that if it was necessary to delay payments in our contracts to meet Financial Fair Play regulations and sign Neymar we would do it," Pique told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser on Thursday. "We were ready to adjust our contracts. We weren't going to contribute money, but we were going to make things easier by allowing some payments to be made in the second or third year instead of the first." The Brazilian sat out the start of the season while he waited for the transfer saga to end but returned to the team in September, scoring four goals in five Ligue 1 appearances. He is currently sidelined with a groin injury sustained on international duty with Brazil.

Football: Barcelona offered to restructure salaries to pay for Neymar return

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-haunted-by-ghosts-of-rome-in-nightmare-loss-to-liverpool-gerard-pique-221387&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7NTMqKrjAhWJ7nMBHbHxALYQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2oDybOjO8_ZKjEV_-5o--P">Barcelona's</a> Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday.

According to a May 13 decision the country's National Court rejected Pique's appeal against the 2016 sentence which required the former Spain international to pay ‎€1.5 million in tax arrears and a 600,000 euros fine.

The tribunal concluded <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-speaks-on-facing-former-manchester-united-teammate-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-209171&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7NTMqKrjAhWJ7nMBHbHxALYQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0qJp4Ynfeqr-KtEPU4f7f5">Pique</a> had faked the handover of his rights images to his Kerad Project company to pay less tax for 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Pique, a World Cup and European Championships winner retains the right to appeal to Spain's supreme court.&nbsp;

The verdict comes a month after his wife, Colombian musician Shakira, was questioned by a judge near the Catalan city over alleged evasion of ‎€14.5 million in taxes.

Her press team released a statement in which they said the artist was innocent.

The centre-back's former teammate at the Camp Nou <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-authorities-put-freeze-on-neymar-mansions-amid-tax-dispute-228093&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4nev1qKrjAhVb8XMBHedlAoEQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QC6QZH7keaR4NhXxf_-z7">Neymar </a>is under investigation by Spain's fiscal authorities over a bonus he received at Barca as well as his world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.

Another of Pique's fellow club squad members Lionel Messi paid a two-million-euro fine in 2016 in his own tax wrangle and received a 21-month jail term.

The prison sentence was later reduced to a further fine of ‎€252,000, equivalent to ‎€400&nbsp;per day of the original term.

A Spanish court in January handed Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud when he was at Real Madrid.

The player, who joined Italian side Juventus last year, also agreed to pay ‎€18.8 million in fines and back taxes to settle the case, according to judicial sources.

Newspaper El Mundo reported in April authorities had accused Atletico Madrid attacker <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-costa-banned-for-eight-games-for-insulting-referee-209665&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixw7KLqarjAhXQ73MBHYpFBk0QFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw18LDXzRpJ7yjCSUIpXgG2i">Diego Costa</a> of fraud totalling ‎€1.1 million related to taxes related to his image rights in 2014.&nbsp;

Barcelona's Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday.

Barcelona's Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday. According to a May 13 decision the country's National Court rejected Pique's appeal against the 2016 sentence which required the former Spain international to pay ‎€1.5 million in tax arrears and a 600,000 euros fine. The tribunal concluded Pique had faked the handover of his rights images to his Kerad Project company to pay less tax for 2008, 2009 and 2010. Pique, a World Cup and European Championships winner retains the right to appeal to Spain's supreme court. The verdict comes a month after his wife, Colombian musician Shakira, was questioned by a judge near the Catalan city over alleged evasion of ‎€14.5 million in taxes. Her press team released a statement in which they said the artist was innocent. The centre-back's former teammate at the Camp Nou Neymar is under investigation by Spain's fiscal authorities over a bonus he received at Barca as well as his world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. Another of Pique's fellow club squad members Lionel Messi paid a two-million-euro fine in 2016 in his own tax wrangle and received a 21-month jail term. The prison sentence was later reduced to a further fine of ‎€252,000, equivalent to ‎€400 per day of the original term. A Spanish court in January handed Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud when he was at Real Madrid. The player, who joined Italian side Juventus last year, also agreed to pay ‎€18.8 million in fines and back taxes to settle the case, according to judicial sources. Newspaper El Mundo reported in April authorities had accused Atletico Madrid attacker Diego Costa of fraud totalling ‎€1.1 million related to taxes related to his image rights in 2014.

Barcelona's Gerard Pique handed €2.1 million tax bill

Spain coach Luis Enrique resigned from the team on Wednesday, three months after temporarily stepping aside for personal reasons, with his number two Robert Moreno taking on the role permanently.

"Owing to the fact that the circumstances which have prevented me from carrying out my role as coach since March continue today I have decided to leave the role," Luis Enrique said in a brief statement on the Spain team's website.

"I would like to show my gratitude to everyone at the Spanish football federation (RFEF) for the faith they have shown me and for understanding the situation.

"I also want to especially thank all the members of staff and players for their professionalism, and the media for showing discretion and respect for the situation."

Federation president Luis Rubiales said the decision came entirely from Luis Enrique, who returned home hours before Spain's second Euro 2020 qualifier at Malta for what the federation described as "family matters of an urgent nature".

"It was a decision Luis Enrique took himself which we are grateful for. We will have a perfect memory of him," Rubiales told a news conference.

"It's a personal matter which doesn't depend on us. We think it's the best thing to do. We have stayed united behind Luis Enrique and the doors of the federation will always be open to him."

Luis Enrique, 49, became Spain coach last July after their exit from the 2018 World Cup to hosts Russia under interim coach Fernando Hierro after Julen Lopetegui was sacked on the eve of the tournament for negotiating a move to Real Madrid.

A former coach with AS Roma, Celta Vigo and Barcelona, Luis Enrique took charge of Spain's UEFA Nations League campaign, where they failed to reach the semi-finals, finishing second in their group behind England.

He began their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign with a 2-1 home win over Norway while Spain have won every game since Moreno took temporary charge, beating Malta 2-0 in March and winning 4-1 at the Faroe Islands and defeating Sweden 3-0 at home this month.

"It's a bittersweet day for me. I dreamed about being a coach but not in this way," said the 41-year-old Moreno, who has no experience as a first team manager apart from in the last three months as the national team's caretaker coach.

"We're going to work honestly and try to take the work Luis Enrique did to the highest level by qualifying for and winning Euro 2020."

Rubiales said that he did not consider any other candidates to take the vacant role.

"Robert Moreno was the only solution we considered," he said.

"We started a new sporting project here a year ago which is going stupendously well and we wanted that project to continue. If we'd have hired a different coach the project would have changed."

Spain coach Luis Enrique resigned from the team on Wednesday, three months after temporarily stepping aside for personal reasons, with his number two Robert Moreno taking on the role permanently.

Spain coach Luis Enrique resigned from the team on Wednesday, three months after temporarily stepping aside for personal reasons, with his number two Robert Moreno taking on the role permanently. "Owing to the fact that the circumstances which have prevented me from carrying out my role as coach since March continue today I have decided to leave the role," Luis Enrique said in a brief statement on the Spain team's website. "I would like to show my gratitude to everyone at the Spanish football federation (RFEF) for the faith they have shown me and for understanding the situation. "I also want to especially thank all the members of staff and players for their professionalism, and the media for showing discretion and respect for the situation." Federation president Luis Rubiales said the decision came entirely from Luis Enrique, who returned home hours before Spain's second Euro 2020 qualifier at Malta for what the federation described as "family matters of an urgent nature". "It was a decision Luis Enrique took himself which we are grateful for. We will have a perfect memory of him," Rubiales told a news conference. "It's a personal matter which doesn't depend on us. We think it's the best thing to do. We have stayed united behind Luis Enrique and the doors of the federation will always be open to him." Luis Enrique, 49, became Spain coach last July after their exit from the 2018 World Cup to hosts Russia under interim coach Fernando Hierro after Julen Lopetegui was sacked on the eve of the tournament for negotiating a move to Real Madrid. A former coach with AS Roma, Celta Vigo and Barcelona, Luis Enrique took charge of Spain's UEFA Nations League campaign, where they failed to reach the semi-finals, finishing second in their group behind England. He began their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign with a 2-1 home win over Norway while Spain have won every game since Moreno took temporary charge, beating Malta 2-0 in March and winning 4-1 at the Faroe Islands and defeating Sweden 3-0 at home this month. "It's a bittersweet day for me. I dreamed about being a coach but not in this way," said the 41-year-old Moreno, who has no experience as a first team manager apart from in the last three months as the national team's caretaker coach. "We're going to work honestly and try to take the work Luis Enrique did to the highest level by qualifying for and winning Euro 2020." Rubiales said that he did not consider any other candidates to take the vacant role. "Robert Moreno was the only solution we considered," he said. "We started a new sporting project here a year ago which is going stupendously well and we wanted that project to continue. If we'd have hired a different coach the project would have changed."

Luis Enrique resigns as Spain coach and is replaced by Robert Moreno

Valencia beat<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-goalkeeper-marc-andre-ter-stegen-to-miss-copa-del-rey-final-220904"> Barcelona</a> 2-1 to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, ending the Spanish champions` four-year winning streak in the competition and denying them a domestic double.

Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo Moreno struck first-half goals to give Marcelino`s dominant Valencia control of the final in Seville`s sweltering Benito Villamarin stadium.

Record 30-times Cup winners Barcelona struggled without injured forwards Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele but Lionel Messi pulled the Catalans back into the game with a close-range finish.

Goncalo Guedes missed a gilt-edged chance in stoppage-time for Valencia but they held on to win their first major trophy since last lifting the Cup in 2008.

"I`m so happy because for me, my family, it`s incredible," said Valencia captain Dani Parejo. "A club like Valencia deserves a lot more joy like this. I don`t have the words, it`s incredible.

"We`ve made history in a really significant year, our centenary year."

Valencia finished fourth in La Liga after a strong second half of the season, reaching the Europa League semi-finals and ending an impressive campaign with this victory.

By contrast, Barcelona`s campaign collapsed in the last fortnight as they threw away a three-goal Champions League semi-final lead to be eliminated by Liverpool before letting the Cup slip out of their hands.

Barcelona was bidding to lift themselves from their humiliation on Merseyside by securing the ninth domestic double in their history, but despite Messi`s efforts, they were over-run by a determined and well-drilled Valencia side.

Gerard Pique was forced to clear Rodrigo's effort off the line before Gameiro blasted Marcelino`s side ahead in the 22nd minute after good work from Jose Luis Gaya.

The Catalans failed to create openings and Rodrigo nodded home the second after Carlos Soler whipped a ball across the face of goal.

Messi struck the post with a delightful outside-of-the-boot effort before slotting home the rebound when Jaume Domenech saved Clement Lenglet`s header for his 51st goal of the season, but it was not enough.

"Valencia are worthy champions and it`s also been a good year for us," said Pique.&nbsp;

"It`s always a good year when you win La Liga but the expectation was to have an even better year and that`s not been the case. The season ends with a bittersweet feeling because it could have been better.

"We aren`t worried about the manager's future, we must analyse ourselves and try to improve. The other decisions aren`t in our hands, but we`ve said more than once that we would like him to stay on."

Valencia beat Barcelona 2-1 to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, ending the Spanish champions` four-year winning streak in the competition and denying them a domestic double.

Valencia beat Barcelona 2-1 to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, ending the Spanish champions` four-year winning streak in the competition and denying them a domestic double. Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo Moreno struck first-half goals to give Marcelino`s dominant Valencia control of the final in Seville`s sweltering Benito Villamarin stadium. Record 30-times Cup winners Barcelona struggled without injured forwards Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele but Lionel Messi pulled the Catalans back into the game with a close-range finish. Goncalo Guedes missed a gilt-edged chance in stoppage-time for Valencia but they held on to win their first major trophy since last lifting the Cup in 2008. "I`m so happy because for me, my family, it`s incredible," said Valencia captain Dani Parejo. "A club like Valencia deserves a lot more joy like this. I don`t have the words, it`s incredible. "We`ve made history in a really significant year, our centenary year." Valencia finished fourth in La Liga after a strong second half of the season, reaching the Europa League semi-finals and ending an impressive campaign with this victory. By contrast, Barcelona`s campaign collapsed in the last fortnight as they threw away a three-goal Champions League semi-final lead to be eliminated by Liverpool before letting the Cup slip out of their hands. Barcelona was bidding to lift themselves from their humiliation on Merseyside by securing the ninth domestic double in their history, but despite Messi`s efforts, they were over-run by a determined and well-drilled Valencia side. Gerard Pique was forced to clear Rodrigo's effort off the line before Gameiro blasted Marcelino`s side ahead in the 22nd minute after good work from Jose Luis Gaya. The Catalans failed to create openings and Rodrigo nodded home the second after Carlos Soler whipped a ball across the face of goal. Messi struck the post with a delightful outside-of-the-boot effort before slotting home the rebound when Jaume Domenech saved Clement Lenglet`s header for his 51st goal of the season, but it was not enough. "Valencia are worthy champions and it`s also been a good year for us," said Pique. "It`s always a good year when you win La Liga but the expectation was to have an even better year and that`s not been the case. The season ends with a bittersweet feeling because it could have been better. "We aren`t worried about the manager's future, we must analyse ourselves and try to improve. The other decisions aren`t in our hands, but we`ve said more than once that we would like him to stay on."

Valencia knock Barcelona off Copa del Rey throne

Barcelona suffered from a mental block during the 4-0 defeat to Liverpool which knocked them out of the Champions League, having been scarred by the memory of a similar collapse to AS Roma last year, defender Gerard Pique has said.

Pique, who has won Europe's elite competition with Barca three times but not since 2015, described the semi-final second leg defeat which wiped out his side's 3-0 first-leg win as "a nightmare", saying it would take years to get over.

"You could see that the team just wasn't functioning, they were putting us under pressure and what had happened last year(against Roma) was very present in our minds," Pique said in an interview with Spanish newspaper El Pais published on Friday.

"I'm sure it was a mental block, but we also didn't play good football. We lacked everything. They pressed us very high, they were very intense, and Anfield also played its role. We just couldn't cope, sometimes it happens."

Barca have romped to a second La Liga title in a row and could complete another successive double when they play Valencia in Saturday's Copa del Rey final.

But just as last season's 3-0 defeat at Roma after a 4-1 home win threatened to overshadow their campaign, Barca's failure to win what Lionel Messi called "that beautiful and desired trophy" has also had a terrible impact on the team.

Pique said his teammates had a sense of deja vu during the game at Anfield, which unfolded in a remarkably similar way to events at the Stadio Olimpico last year.

"I think on a mental level some of us were affected by what had happened in Rome, it was so recent. The first goal came very quickly, and suddenly the image of Rome appeared," Pique said, recalling Sadio Mane's goal in the 15th minute at Anfield.

"Then they scored two more goals in quick succession and it starts to look too similar to what happened a year ago. It was very tough, it has been very difficult to pull ourselves back up because the days go by and you can't forget this defeat.

"It's a slip up which is going to last a long time, but we need to take a step forward," Pique added.

"We cannot keep torturing ourselves. It was a nightmare and we have to deal with it because it could happen again.

"But we have to understand why it happened and let it help us in the future because we want to lift the Champions League again."

Barcelona suffered from a mental block during the 4-0 defeat to Liverpool which knocked them out of the Champions League, having been scarred by the memory of a similar collapse to AS Roma last year, defender Gerard Pique has said.

Barcelona suffered from a mental block during the 4-0 defeat to Liverpool which knocked them out of the Champions League, having been scarred by the memory of a similar collapse to AS Roma last year, defender Gerard Pique has said. Pique, who has won Europe's elite competition with Barca three times but not since 2015, described the semi-final second leg defeat which wiped out his side's 3-0 first-leg win as "a nightmare", saying it would take years to get over. "You could see that the team just wasn't functioning, they were putting us under pressure and what had happened last year(against Roma) was very present in our minds," Pique said in an interview with Spanish newspaper El Pais published on Friday. "I'm sure it was a mental block, but we also didn't play good football. We lacked everything. They pressed us very high, they were very intense, and Anfield also played its role. We just couldn't cope, sometimes it happens." Barca have romped to a second La Liga title in a row and could complete another successive double when they play Valencia in Saturday's Copa del Rey final. But just as last season's 3-0 defeat at Roma after a 4-1 home win threatened to overshadow their campaign, Barca's failure to win what Lionel Messi called "that beautiful and desired trophy" has also had a terrible impact on the team. Pique said his teammates had a sense of deja vu during the game at Anfield, which unfolded in a remarkably similar way to events at the Stadio Olimpico last year. "I think on a mental level some of us were affected by what had happened in Rome, it was so recent. The first goal came very quickly, and suddenly the image of Rome appeared," Pique said, recalling Sadio Mane's goal in the 15th minute at Anfield. "Then they scored two more goals in quick succession and it starts to look too similar to what happened a year ago. It was very tough, it has been very difficult to pull ourselves back up because the days go by and you can't forget this defeat. "It's a slip up which is going to last a long time, but we need to take a step forward," Pique added. "We cannot keep torturing ourselves. It was a nightmare and we have to deal with it because it could happen again. "But we have to understand why it happened and let it help us in the future because we want to lift the Champions League again."

Barca haunted by ghosts of Rome in 'nightmare' loss to Liverpool: Gerard Pique

France striker Antoine Griezmann will leave Atletico Madrid at the end of the season, the player said in a video released on the club's official Twitter account on Tuesday.

The 28-year-old did not reveal where he would be playing next but widespread reports in the Spanish media said he would be joining Barcelona, who he famously rejected last year before penning a new contract with Atletico until 2023.

World Cup winner Griezmann, who signed a new five-year contract last June, said he had told Atletico coach Diego Simeone and chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin of his decision and addressed the supporters in the video message.

"After speaking to Simeone and Miguel Angel and the club hierarchy I wanted to immediately tell you, the Atletico fans who have always given me a lot of love that I have taken the decision to leave, to see other things, to have other challenges," he said.

"The truth is it has been difficult to arrive to this point but I feel it's what I need to do, I want to thank you for all the support you have given me in these five years, where I won my first trophies",&nbsp;Griezmann said.

Griezmann rejected an offer from Barca last June, documenting his internal struggles about whether to make the move in a landmark documentary called 'The Decision', produced by Barcelona defender Gerard Pique's Kosmos production company.

The last contract he signed initially raised his release clause to 200 million euros ($224.06 million) but several media reports say that figure will drop to 120 million on July 1.&nbsp;

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. <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoGriezmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AntoGriezmann</a>: "These five years have been incredible. Thank you very much for everything, I carry you in my heart." <a href="https://t.co/uz1jwQj1Sg">pic.twitter.com/uz1jwQj1Sg</a>
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/1128405481809162241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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TOP SCORER

Griezmann, who joined Atletico from Real Sociedad for a reported 30 million euros in 2014, has been the team's top scorer in each of the five seasons he has been at the club.

He was Atletico's inspirational figure when they won the 2018 Europa League, scoring twice in a 3-0 win over Olympique Marseilles in the final, before helping them win the UEFA Super Cup. Griezmann also lifted the Spanish Super Cup in 2014.

He played in the 2016 Champions League final, which Atletico lost on penalties to Real Madrid, and was named as the third best player in the world at that year`s FIFA Ballon d`Or awards.

"I've had some incredible moments which I`ll always remember, I`ll always hold Atletico fans in my heart, it`s never easy to make a decision like this," added Griezmann.

"Many thanks for everything, I have really enjoyed myself in the last five years, I`ve given everything on the pitch and I`ve always tried to be a good person. I have tried to give lots of joy to the fans at the Wanda Metropolitano and to our fans at away games, many thanks from my heart and until next time",&nbsp;Griezmann said.

Griezmann is the latest high profile player to announce that he is leaving Atletico at the end of the season.&nbsp;

France defender Lucas Hernandez agreed to join Bayern Munich when they paid his 80-million euro release clause and long-serving captain Diego Godin`s contract is coming to an end.

France striker Antoine Griezmann will leave Atletico Madrid at the end of the season, the player said in a video released on the club's official Twitter account on Tuesday.

France striker Antoine Griezmann will leave Atletico Madrid at the end of the season, the player said in a video released on the club's official Twitter account on Tuesday. The 28-year-old did not reveal where he would be playing next but widespread reports in the Spanish media said he would be joining Barcelona, who he famously rejected last year before penning a new contract with Atletico until 2023. World Cup winner Griezmann, who signed a new five-year contract last June, said he had told Atletico coach Diego Simeone and chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin of his decision and addressed the supporters in the video message. "After speaking to Simeone and Miguel Angel and the club hierarchy I wanted to immediately tell you, the Atletico fans who have always given me a lot of love that I have taken the decision to leave, to see other things, to have other challenges," he said. "The truth is it has been difficult to arrive to this point but I feel it's what I need to do, I want to thank you for all the support you have given me in these five years, where I won my first trophies", Griezmann said. Griezmann rejected an offer from Barca last June, documenting his internal struggles about whether to make the move in a landmark documentary called 'The Decision', produced by Barcelona defender Gerard Pique's Kosmos production company. The last contract he signed initially raised his release clause to 200 million euros ($224.06 million) but several media reports say that figure will drop to 120 million on July 1. . @AntoGriezmann: "These five years have been incredible. Thank you very much for everything, I carry you in my heart." pic.twitter.com/uz1jwQj1Sg — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) May 14, 2019 × TOP SCORER Griezmann, who joined Atletico from Real Sociedad for a reported 30 million euros in 2014, has been the team's top scorer in each of the five seasons he has been at the club. He was Atletico's inspirational figure when they won the 2018 Europa League, scoring twice in a 3-0 win over Olympique Marseilles in the final, before helping them win the UEFA Super Cup. Griezmann also lifted the Spanish Super Cup in 2014. He played in the 2016 Champions League final, which Atletico lost on penalties to Real Madrid, and was named as the third best player in the world at that year`s FIFA Ballon d`Or awards. "I've had some incredible moments which I`ll always remember, I`ll always hold Atletico fans in my heart, it`s never easy to make a decision like this," added Griezmann. "Many thanks for everything, I have really enjoyed myself in the last five years, I`ve given everything on the pitch and I`ve always tried to be a good person. I have tried to give lots of joy to the fans at the Wanda Metropolitano and to our fans at away games, many thanks from my heart and until next time", Griezmann said. Griezmann is the latest high profile player to announce that he is leaving Atletico at the end of the season. France defender Lucas Hernandez agreed to join Bayern Munich when they paid his 80-million euro release clause and long-serving captain Diego Godin`s contract is coming to an end.

Antoine Griezmann announces departure from Atletico Madrid at end of the season

Barcelona defender&nbsp;Gerard Pique said that&nbsp;his&nbsp;side must kill Manchester United in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals to avoid Paris Saint-Germain's fate.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old, who made his first steps in the professional game at United to Barca in 2008 said that he looking forward to facing his former club Manchester United and his former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who is the current manager of Man Utd.&nbsp;

In the round of 16, Manchester United turned around a 2-0 home defeat against PSG and won the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the second leg.&nbsp;The historic win contributed to Solskjaer being handed the United job on a three-year contract.&nbsp;

Pique said that he has been impressed by the never-say-die attitude brought back by Solskjaer.&nbsp;

In a press conference, Pique told reporters, "It was a great experience playing alongside him. As I said, he helped me a lot and I am very happy to see him now in charge of the club, of Manchester United. He is doing a great job since he took charge of the team, they have won lot of games, they are playing much better."

Pique further added, "We have to be very concentrated from the first minute until the last minute of the tie, we know that Manchester United are very dangerous and that we have to play our best game to try to qualify."&nbsp;

"The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique added.&nbsp;

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said that his side must kill Manchester United in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals to avoid Paris Saint-Germain's fate.

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said that his side must kill Manchester United in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals to avoid Paris Saint-Germain's fate. The 31-year-old, who made his first steps in the professional game at United to Barca in 2008 said that he looking forward to facing his former club Manchester United and his former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who is the current manager of Man Utd. In the round of 16, Manchester United turned around a 2-0 home defeat against PSG and won the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the second leg. The historic win contributed to Solskjaer being handed the United job on a three-year contract. Pique said that he has been impressed by the never-say-die attitude brought back by Solskjaer. In a press conference, Pique told reporters, "It was a great experience playing alongside him. As I said, he helped me a lot and I am very happy to see him now in charge of the club, of Manchester United. He is doing a great job since he took charge of the team, they have won lot of games, they are playing much better." Pique further added, "We have to be very concentrated from the first minute until the last minute of the tie, we know that Manchester United are very dangerous and that we have to play our best game to try to qualify." "The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique added.

Gerard Pique speaks on facing former Manchester United teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has urged his side to make sure they do not leave Manchester United room for another heroic comeback in the Champions League when they visit Old Trafford in Wednesday's eagerly-awaited quarter-final first leg.

United made history in the last-16 by overturning a 2-0 home defeat against Paris St Germain to win the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the French capital, underlining the club's reputation for stirring European revivals.

"The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique told a news conference on Tuesday.

"In the first leg PSG were the better side, they scored two goals and they could have scored more. United have a great history, in the second leg they played with lots of young lads from their academy and they still qualified.

"That game should remind us that we have to be very concentrated, as United are a very dangerous team."

Pique, 32, spent his first years as a professional with United, joining the club aged 17 but returning to Barca in 2008 after failing to hold down a place in the team due to fierce competition from Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

Pique has turned into one of Barcelona's best ever defenders in his 11 years back at his boyhood club and is on course to win an eighth La Liga title with the Catalans, who are also in the Copa del Rey final and have the treble within their sights.

But he said his experience at United was invaluable to his development.

"I went from being kid to an adult here, I had my first experiences as a professional and some crazy experiences off the pitch. I came here alone, without my family, I learned a lot and I left a completely different person," he recalled.

Pique also said United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer helped him through difficult times in Manchester when they were team mates, and he praised the former Norway forward for reviving the club's fortunes since succeeding Jose Mourinho in December.

"I remember Ole as a great team mate, I was 17 and he was a veteran and for sure he helped me adapt to the club, to the country and to the city," Pique added.

"It was a great experience to train alongside him, he helped me a lot so I'm happy to see him in charge of Manchester United. He's done a great job, won lots of games and got them playing much better. Tomorrow will be tough and I hope we can win."

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has urged his side to make sure they do not leave Manchester United room for another heroic comeback in the Champions League when they visit Old Trafford in Wednesday's eagerly-awaited quarter-final first leg.

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has urged his side to make sure they do not leave Manchester United room for another heroic comeback in the Champions League when they visit Old Trafford in Wednesday's eagerly-awaited quarter-final first leg. United made history in the last-16 by overturning a 2-0 home defeat against Paris St Germain to win the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the French capital, underlining the club's reputation for stirring European revivals. "The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique told a news conference on Tuesday. "In the first leg PSG were the better side, they scored two goals and they could have scored more. United have a great history, in the second leg they played with lots of young lads from their academy and they still qualified. "That game should remind us that we have to be very concentrated, as United are a very dangerous team." Pique, 32, spent his first years as a professional with United, joining the club aged 17 but returning to Barca in 2008 after failing to hold down a place in the team due to fierce competition from Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic. Pique has turned into one of Barcelona's best ever defenders in his 11 years back at his boyhood club and is on course to win an eighth La Liga title with the Catalans, who are also in the Copa del Rey final and have the treble within their sights. But he said his experience at United was invaluable to his development. "I went from being kid to an adult here, I had my first experiences as a professional and some crazy experiences off the pitch. I came here alone, without my family, I learned a lot and I left a completely different person," he recalled. Pique also said United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer helped him through difficult times in Manchester when they were team mates, and he praised the former Norway forward for reviving the club's fortunes since succeeding Jose Mourinho in December. "I remember Ole as a great team mate, I was 17 and he was a veteran and for sure he helped me adapt to the club, to the country and to the city," Pique added. "It was a great experience to train alongside him, he helped me a lot so I'm happy to see him in charge of Manchester United. He's done a great job, won lots of games and got them playing much better. Tomorrow will be tough and I hope we can win."

Don't leave United alive in the tie, Gerard Pique warns Barcelona

Spanish prosecutors filed charges against Colombian singer Shakira on Friday, accusing her of failing to pay 14.5 million euros in tax ($16.3 million) in the country where her Spanish footballer partner plays.

The charges were filed in the Catalonia region, where the singer is a regular presence at matches of her partner Gerard Pique`s team, Barcelona. She was accused of failing to pay tax on income earned from 2012-2014 when the prosecutors say she lived there.

Representatives of Shakira said in a statement that the singer did not live in Spain until 2015, and has met all of her tax obligations to Spanish authorities.&nbsp;

The 'Hips Don`t Lie'&nbsp;singer and Pique have been a couple since the start of the decade and have two children.

It is the latest case of a high-profile foreigner with links to top-level Spanish soccer being accused of avoiding tax while living there. Earlier investigations looked into Pique`s Argentinian Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi and Portuguese international Cristiano Ronaldo, who left Real Madrid for Juventus this year.

Spanish prosecutors filed charges against Colombian singer Shakira on Friday, accusing her of failing to pay 14.5 million euros in tax ($16.3 million) in the country where her Spanish footballer partner plays.

Spanish prosecutors filed charges against Colombian singer Shakira on Friday, accusing her of failing to pay 14.5 million euros in tax ($16.3 million) in the country where her Spanish footballer partner plays. The charges were filed in the Catalonia region, where the singer is a regular presence at matches of her partner Gerard Pique`s team, Barcelona. She was accused of failing to pay tax on income earned from 2012-2014 when the prosecutors say she lived there. Representatives of Shakira said in a statement that the singer did not live in Spain until 2015, and has met all of her tax obligations to Spanish authorities. The 'Hips Don`t Lie' singer and Pique have been a couple since the start of the decade and have two children. It is the latest case of a high-profile foreigner with links to top-level Spanish soccer being accused of avoiding tax while living there. Earlier investigations looked into Pique`s Argentinian Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi and Portuguese international Cristiano Ronaldo, who left Real Madrid for Juventus this year.

Spain's prosecutor accuses singer Shakira of tax fraud

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