Roberto Carlos, former Real Madrid defender, has refuted reports claiming he is homeless following an acrimonious split with his estranged wife.
Recently, there were reports that Carlos, now Real Madrid’s director of institutional relations, has moved into the club’s training ground at Valdebabas after leaving his private residence in Spain, where he had lived since retiring from football in 2016.
The reports claimed that the 51-year-old is sleeping at the club facility following a complicated divorce settlement between him and Mariana Lucon, his wife of 15 years.
The rumours added that the wife has staked a claim at the couple’s matrimonial residence, while her family occupies Carlos’ second property.
However, in a tweet on Wednesday, Carlos dismissed the reports as “false and damaging” and “baseless rumours” which were “designated to generate clicks”.
The Brazilian added that he lives “in a private residence, supported by members of my family”.
“In recent days, I have become aware of false and damaging stories circulating about me and my family.
“While I value privacy, I feel compelled to address the baseless rumours about my living situation. These fabricated stories are entirely false and seem designated to generate clicks.
“I remain in a private residence, supported by members of my family.
“My legal team is reviewing these claims and will take appropriate action.
The 2022 World Cup winner then asked that his privacy be respected “during this time”.
Carlos and Lucon married in June 2009 and have two daughters – Manuela and Mariana.