Alexis Sanchez has revealed he has split up with his girlfriend Mayte Rodrigruez by sharing the news on his Instagram with an emotional post.

The 29-year-old shared photos of them together followed by a message explaining how they had to go 'on their own paths', accompanied by some emotional music in true Sanchez fashion.

The news comes just days after the Man United forward threw a tantrum at Turf Moor following Jose Mourinho's decision to substitute him.

Alexis Sanchez announced he has split up with girlfriend Mayte Rodriguez on Instagram

Sanchez shares emotional post on Instagram of the couple in their happier days

Announcing the news to Instagram, Sanchez wrote: 'I wish you the best of the world it was beautiful to have met you and to share nice moments with you, but we decided that each one should follow their own path, to seek our dreams.

'I do not usually do this but I ask respect from all those who speak without knowing to do harm because behind everything there is family and children... respect.'

The announcement was made with two photos of the pair cuddled up together during happier times as he informed his nine-and-a-half-million followers of the break-up.

Rumours the couple had gone their separate ways began to surface back in May after they both deleted photos of each other from their social media feeds.

There is also a photo of them with their three dogs, which he alludes to in his message

Alexis Sanchez writes a touching tribute to his former girlfriend in Spanish on Instagram

Alexis Sanchez writes a touching tribute to his former girlfriend in Spanish on Instagram

But a furious Sanchez hit back at those suggestions saying: 'Why is there so much evil and envy in these people?

'Is it necessary to hurt a couple, family, friends etc … with so many lies?

'I wish you happy and that there is not so much evil in your hearts. KARMA do not bother my partner RESPECT'.

However it now appears the decision is final and they have split up following what has been a tumultuous year for Sanchez.

The 29-year-old's form has wavered since joining Man United in January and he has continued to cut a frustrated figure since leaving Arsenal.

To make matters worse, he was not involved in the World Cup after Chile shockingly failed to qualify.

He will be back in action for United following the international break, when they face a trip to the unbeaten Watford.