Following hints of a possible split, former Spanish national team goalkeeper Iker Casillas and sports journalist Sara Carbonero have confirmed the rumors through a joint statement.

"Sara and I are extremely proud of the family we are and that we have been able to share a love that has filled us with happiness throughout these years of relationship.

Today, our love as a ccift takes different but not remote paths as we will continue together the wonderful task as devoted parents, as we have done so far. It's a deliberate decision and we made it mutually. " - they write.

Në vijim të deklaratës, shtojnë:

“Respekti, afeksioni dhe miqësia do të qëndrojnë gjithmonë. Prioriteti ynë është, nga dashuria dhe përkushtimi, të ndajmë mirëqenien dhe edukimin e fëmijëve tanë dhe t'i mbrojmë ata në mënyrë që të rriten në një mjedis të qëndrueshëm dhe të shëndetshëm. Me këto fjalë ne kërkojmë që të respektohet privatësia jonë në këtë kohë ndryshimi. Këto janë fjalët e vetme që themi publikisht tani dhe në të ardhmen. Ju faleminderit për mirëkuptimin.”

Their relationship, alluded to since 2009, was made public in the most spectacular way possible. Right after the match that sealed Spain's victory in the 2010 World Cup, Sara, who was reporting live for Telecinco, held the Spanish flag painted on the page and would interview Casillas. The latter, amid euphoria, kissed him passionately in front of more than 47 million viewers who were watching the coverage of Spain's victory.

Their first son, Martín, came to life in 2014, while their second, Lucas, was born two years later.

Widely referred to as "San Iker" for his spectacular ball reception ability, Casillas is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers of all time.