Former Southampton defender Jan Bednarek and his family were subjected to a terrifying robbery at their home in Porto, Portugal, on Friday evening. An intruder armed with a knife reportedly threatened the Polish international before escaping with jewellery valued at approximately £130,000.
Incident Details
The crime occurred around 9:30 pm local time, according to Portuguese media. Bednarek, 30, had just returned from a restaurant with his wife Julia and their daughter when he surprised the burglar. Fortunately, the footballer and his loved ones were not physically harmed.
Portugal's PSP police initially responded to the scene but have since handed over the investigation to the Policia Judiciaria, the country's criminal investigation police.
Background on Bednarek
Bednarek is currently playing for FC Porto, who recently secured their 31st league title. He joined the Portuguese club in July 2023 after eight seasons with Southampton. Best known in England for his spell at Southampton, he also had a loan stint at Aston Villa in 2022-23.
He has represented Poland at two World Cups (2018 and 2022) and two European Championships. Neither Bednarek nor his wife Julia have commented publicly on the incident, though Julia had posted footage of the couple visiting an art gallery hours before the robbery.
Previous Career Moves
Bednarek joined Southampton in July 2017 for £5 million, making his debut against Wolves in the EFL Cup that August. He was loaned to Aston Villa in September 2022 but recalled early in January 2023 after only three Premier League appearances. His move to Villa had sparked controversy among Southampton fans after he described the club as 'bigger' than Saints.
The investigation into the robbery is ongoing.
