A popular goalkeeper whose girlfriend of some years, is currently heavily pregnant for him, has announced a shocking split.
Thibaut Courtois, a Chelsea goalkeeper has confirmed he has split from his pregnant girlfriend and the mother of his child,The Sun UK reports.
And despite it being a tough time for the Belgian stopper and his ex Marta Dominguez, it could prove to be a boost to Chelsea‘s hopes of keeping him.
Rumours have persisted this season that despite the Blues looking set to be crowned Premier League champions, Courtois was looking for a move to Spain.
Real Madrid were predicted to be the front-runners to bid for the 24-year-old stopper.
He was said to be keen to live back with Miss Dominguez in Spain, who is expecting their second child. The couple already have a daughter, Adriana, who is coming up to her second birthday.
But according to Belgian news-site Nieuwsbald, Courtois is back on the dating scene.
It reports Courtois as saying: "In September we decided to split up, on amicable terms. We still love each other and we get along very well, but we don't have a romantic relationship anymore.
"But we don't run away for our responsibilities. We are first and foremost parents of a beautiful princess, Adriana, and our about to be born son, Nicolas.
"We'll strive to give them the love and attention they deserve. Marta and I will be still present in each other's lives, as good friends and the best parents for our two kids. Their luck is our priority."
Courtois met Dominguez during his time playing for Atletico Madrid.