Shakira and Gerard Piqué supposedly had an open relationship before allegations of adultery led to a harsh divorce.
The former couple announced the end of their 11-year relationship in June 2022, shortly after former FC Barcelona and Spain star Pique, 36, was accused of cheating on the singer, 46.
Pique, who has already begun a new relationship with model Clara Chia Marti, then denied having an affair, claiming there was "no infidelity on his part."
Spanish broadcaster José Antonio Avilés has since insisted the former couple had been in mutually acceptable open relationship for three years before their separation.
'There is an agreement where "you do what you want and I do what I want", but in the face of the media we are still a couple,' Avilés said of their alleged agreement, according to El Nacional de Catalunya.
Claims of an open relationship are believed to have come from Piqué's close circle of friends and family, with many said to be stunned by his former partner's references to infidelity.
'The footballer's entourage was surprised by Shakira's statement,' Avilés added. 'He has been annoyed to find out from the press.'
Elsewhere fellow journalist Pilar Vidal added: 'Piqué does not want speculation that the reason for the breakup was infidelity.
'He was surprised by the statement, because the one who takes the initiative is her.'
Shakira has since moved to Miami after being awarded full custody of their two children, Milan and Sasha, and has since been romantically linked to Formula One racing driver Lewis Hamilton.