Jimmy Bartel breaks his silence over marriage breakdown with Nadia

Former AFL star Jimmy Bartel has broken his silence after splitting with wife Nadia, as rumours swirl he has a new woman in his life.

Jimmy Bartel has broken his silence following news his marriage with Nadia came to light over the past few days.

The couple sparked breakup rumours earlier in the week after they abruptly unfollowed each other on Instagram. Jimmy has since switched his profile to private.

Bartel addressed the marriage breakdown on 3AW’s pre-game AFL coverage on Saturday afternoon and called for privacy.

“It’s not great, but I am probably not going to provide any commentary on it,” Bartel said.

“I know I am in the public eye and people are interested, but it is a private matter and I ask for a bit of respect because obviously Nadia and the boys (are) involved.

“I still enjoy coming to work and I love working with everybody in football. I love the game so I can’t see why I wouldn’t keep showing up for work.”

Bartel in the commentary box.

On Saturday morning it was reported by The Herald Sun the couple had separated in July and that Bartel has a new woman in his life.

The former Geelong superstar is rumoured to be seeing Melbourne socialite Lauren Mand, a relationship which has reportedly left Nadia heartbroken.

Lauren Mand is the new woman in Jimmy’s life.

Lauren Mand.

Nadia, who is reported to be on the Gold Coast on a fashion shoot has yet to publicly address the breakdown of their high-profiled marriage.

On Thursday, Nadia posted a cryptic quote on Instagram, that has since been deleted, which appeared to be about friends and family who have supported her.

“People who resonate with your energy will always be there. Y’all are on the same frequency you are aligned together. It’s a soul family. Know your members. You know who you are,” she wrote with a kiss.