Shakira and Gerard Piqué have welcomed last night their first child together, baby boy Milan Piqué Mebarak.

Shakira has announced the happy news on her official website, revealing that he is already to follow in the footsteps of his father, footballer Gerard Piqué, stating: “Just like his father, baby Milan became a member of FC Barcelona at birth.”

The singer added in the message: “We are happy to announce the birth of Milan Piqué Mebarak, son of Shakira Mebarak and Gerard Piqué, born January 22nd at 9:36 p.m., in Barcelona, Spain.

“The name Milan (pronounced MEE-lahn), means dear, loving and gracious in Slavic; in Ancient Roman, eager and laborious; and in Sanskrit, unification…”

The hospital confirmed that the couple’s first child weighed approximately 6 lbs. 6 ounces, and that both mother and child are in excellent health.

Shakira, 35,took to Twitter just four hours earlier to ask her devotees to pray for her during the birth of her first child, revealing to them that she was about to go into labour.

She was admitted into hospital in Barcelona, where she was due to be induced and give birth to her baby boy with her 25-year-old boyfriend Gerard Piqué.

Shakira and Gerard Piqué have welcomed last night their first child together, baby boy Milan Piqué Mebarak

Shakira appealed to her fans via Twitter shortly after arriving at the Teknon clinic on Tuesday, writing: “I’d like to ask you all to accompany me in your prayers on this very important day of my life. Shak.”

She also posted the same content in Spanish and was immediately inundated with messages of support from her fans across the world, wishing her good luck.

A source previously told Spanish newspaper La Razon that the couple scheduled the birth so that FC Barcelona footballer Gerard Piqué could be present during their baby’s arrival.

The insider also revealed that Shakira had requested a female only medical team, who all signed confidentiality agreements, assist her during the birth.

The Colombian was said to be feeling “increasing discomfort” ahead of the birth and was complaining of “abdominal pressure.”

Shakira has been dating soccer player Gerard Piqué for around two years and previously said he is the “best thing” to ever happen to her, until she got pregnant.

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