Love Island's Jasmine Muller has shared insights into her past romance with former Arsenal footballer Héctor Bellerín, 31, ahead of her appearance on the ITV2 dating show. The 27-year-old fashion business owner dated the sportsman in 2021, and while Bellerín has not publicly discussed their relationship, Jasmine described it as a 'healthy and lovely' romance.
Although the reason for their split remains unknown, Jasmine revealed that her past relationship has not deterred her from dating footballers in the future. She expressed openness to getting to know fellow islander and Gaelic footballer Sean Fitzgerald while in the villa.
Preparation for the Public Eye
Speaking to Daily Mail and other publications before her stint on the show, Jasmine discussed how her high-profile relationship prepared her for being in the public eye. 'I had a very healthy and lovely relationship with him and everything is on good terms. I have nothing bad to say about him and him the same for me,' she said.
'But it is so long ago that it's not something I think about on a daily. Obviously, I know that it's something interesting for people to talk about, but it's not a big part of my life anymore.' She added that the experience 'probably has prepared me in some ways' but credited her strong support network as her main preparation.
Open to New Connections
With Galway footballer Seán Fitzgerald also seeking love in the villa, Jasmine admitted her past relationship hasn't put her off seeking a romance with a footballer. 'No, not at all. I think I'm open to getting to know everyone. I've been single for a while so just give me whatever at this point and I'll see how it goes,' she shared.
She also revealed that she does not look for specific traits from Héctor in a new partner. Her general requirements include a good-looking man with a goatee, confidence, and possibly tattoos. 'I think I always go for the guy that is just like very hot - it's always been that way,' she remarked.
Dealbreakers and Friendships
Discussing her biggest 'ick,' Jasmine said: 'I don't like insecure men. I think because I'm quite secure in who I am, I look for someone who matches that.' She also gushed about her friendship with Amber Wise, daughter of former England player Dennis Wise, calling her a 'little beautiful rocket of a woman.'
Jasmine insisted that if they were in the villa together, she would happily step aside for Amber if they liked the same guy, but not for other female islanders. 'I think because she's my girl, I have a lot of love for her, so I'd be like, go on, honey. But otherwise, I think, you know, I know what I want and I'm happy to make it known,' she said.
Love Island 2026 Returns
The popular dating show, a summer staple since 2015, returns on June 1, presented by Maya Jama. ITV announced: 'With unexpected arrivals, shifting loyalties, and sparks flying, the new series promises even more unforgettable moments, unmissable messiness, and plenty of romance.'
This year, Love Island coincides with the World Cup, taking place June 11 to July 19. In a teaser trailer, Maya said: 'We've got a squad of worldies and a bench full of bombshells giving more fire pit drama... Love Island it's all kicking off.'
Love Island 2026 airs on ITV2 from June 1.
