Divorce expert Emma Blackstone, of Clarion Solicitors, said: “The starting point is the equal division of the matrimonial assets. That means half of Thierry Henry’s assets.”

The final settlement, which comes into force when a decree absolute is granted, may be stalled by the couple’s failure to agree on custody terms and Henry’s visitation rights for Tea. He has said he is unhappy with the current arrangements and is planning legal action.

The footballer and the model fell in love after meeting on the film set of a Renault Clio advert, in which Henry used the catch-phrase Va Va Voom.

The couple were married in July 2003 in a £40,000 wedding at Highclere Castle, Berks.

Henry announced he had split up from his wife just before his transfer from Arsenal to Barcelona in June.

He has since formed a friendship with married Spanish actress Paz Vega, 31, whom he met while they were shooting a Reebok commercial together.

Ms Merry has stayed on at the family’s six-bedroom house in Hampstead, north London, with Tea. She bought it with Henry five years ago for £6million.

Ms Merry has hired Fiona Shackleton to act for her. Ms Shackleton, of law firm Payne Hicks Beach, also represents Sir Paul McCartney in his split with Heather Mills and represented Prince Charles in his divorce.

Henry has Mishcon de Reya, the law firm Heather Mills and Princess Diana hired.