Ivorian football icon Didier Drogba has divorced his Malian wife Lalla Diakite after over 20 years of marriage.

Drogba and Diakite got married in June 2001 in Monaco however their matrimonial union has hit the rocks.

The former Chelsea player took to social media to confirm the news of their divorce.

He wrote on his Instagram story: “I am not used to discussing my private life, but due to speculation in the media today, I will confirm that unfortunately after 20 years together Lalla and I have made the difficult decision to go our separate ways last year.”

Drogba, however, disclosed that he and the wife remain very close and our main goal has been our children and to protect them and the privacy of the family.”