Shakira Reportedly Blocks Piqué’s Return to Manchester United
Love is a powerful influence—even in the world of football transfers. Colombian pop star Shakira has reportedly played a decisive role in her partner Gerard Piqué’s stance on a potential return to Manchester United. Despite the English club’s renewed interest in the Spanish defender, especially after failing to land Mats Hummels and Mehdi Benatia, Piqué has described a comeback to Old Trafford as “unlikely”.
The Daily Mail attributes part of this reluctance to Shakira, who allegedly refuses to relocate from Barcelona to Northern England, where she would have to leave behind her established life and career base. This sentiment is echoed by Spanish outlet AS, which notes Manchester United’s search for an experienced centre-back and their consideration of Piqué, who previously played for the club between 2004 and 2008.
While Piqué is recovering from a hip injury and facing challenges reclaiming a consistent starting role at FC Barcelona, a departure still seems off the table—if not for sporting reasons, then certainly for personal ones. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time love influenced professional decisions. Piqué himself once allegedly restricted Shakira from featuring men in her music videos, a move that stirred public debate.
Now, it seems it’s Shakira’s turn to influence the game. With the couple’s family life rooted in Catalonia and Shakira prioritizing stability for their son, a cold, rainy Manchester comeback may never materialize—for football or family reasons.
