The wife of Arsenal star Leandro Trossard has announced that she and the Belgian international have ended their relationship. In a statement on social media, Laura Hilven disclosed that the couple had separated after 13 years together.
Trossard, who is a vital member of Mikel Arteta's squad, has played a significant role in propelling the Gunners to the top of English football - where they remain embroiled in a title race with Manchester City. The 31-year-old netted the decisive goal for Arsenal during their London derby victory over West Ham United to stretch their advantage at the Premier League summit.
Nevertheless, in the run-up to the fixture, he had made headlines after his partner seemed to erase all evidence of him from her social media, thereby fuelling rumours about their relationship. Hilvin had previously posted photographs with the former Brighton attacker, but Trossard hadn't featured on her feed since late last year, and the deletion of social media posts meant the remnants of their wedding images were removed.
The 33-year-old revealed that both she and the footballer had parted ways amicably, while emphasising that they will remain committed to their two children. The Instagram story said: "With deep love, care, and respect for one another, we have made the incredibly difficult decision to separate amicably.
"This was not a choice made lightly. In fact we have been separated for some time now, and during that period we have taken the space and time needed to navigate this privately and thoughtfully. Our decision comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire to create the healthiest and happiest future for everyone involved.
"Most importantly, we are and always will be devoted parents to our two beautiful children. We kindly ask for compassion, understanding, and privacy during this deeply personal transition. With love, Laura."
The couple wed in 2019 after the Arsenal forward proposed in June 2018. At the time of the engagement announcement, she said: "I can't picture my life with anyone other than YOU! I SAID YES #hefinallypoppedthequestion #sohappytobeengagedtohim #soonwifey #marriedwiththemanofmydreams."
On the pitch, Arsenal remain firmly focused on avoiding a costly stumble in the title race, alongside their upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest later this month. Trossard's goal proved pivotal in slamming the door shut on Pep Guardiola's side, following City's dramatic 2-2 draw with Everton.
After City's comfortable 3-0 win over Crystal Palace on Wednesday, the deficit remains at two points with as many games remaining. Speaking after his match-winning moment at the weekend, Trossard said: "It was quite tense at the end and we're really happy that it went our way.
"You have to go on until the last minute, and especially in those games, we knew it would be tight because we know what we're playing for as well. But yeah, I was just so relieved that the ball went in the back of the net. I had the belief that we would keep the clean sheet because we're good at that as well, so credit to the boys, everyone fought a lot and I think it's a deserved win."