A group of burglars broke into the home of former Everton and Swansea manager Roberto Martinez and stole hundreds of thousands worth of designer goods.
The criminals struck while the former Premier League boss, who now coaches Portugal’s national team, was out of his home on Saturday afternoon with his partner.
It’s believed they gained access through a window of the luxury property in the luxury coastal town of Cascais, a short drive west of Lisbon.
Police speculate the burglars knew the couple were going to be out and made a thorough search of every room for valuables, confident they had several hours to act without being caught.
Forensic experts have already swept the house in the centre of Cascais for clues.
Portugal’s PSP police force, which is heading the investigation into the break-in, is said to be focusing on the theory that it was carried out by a foreign gang specialising in high-end property heists.
The number of items taken has not been revealed, but it’s reported that the watches and jewellery were worth £87,000 – but Martinez and his wife estimate the worth to be around £700,000.
The 52-year-old played for teams including Wigan, Motherwell and Chester City before going on to manage a number of English clubs.
He led Wigan as well as Swansea, and Everton as coach, but has yet to make any official comment on the robbery.
He managed the Belgian national side before becoming Portugal’s head coach in January 2023.
In June, Martinez guided Portugal to their second UEFA Nations League title after defeating the reigning European champions, Spain.
He married his Scottish wife Beth at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Swansea in June 2009, with their Pomeranian dog Leo as chief bridesmaid and ex-Manchester United star Jordi Cruyff as best man.
They have two daughters named Luella and Safiana.
In December 2021, former Manchester City star Nicolas Otamendi was ambushed by a gang of robbers as he returned to his home south of Lisbon after a game with current side Benfica.
Reports at the time said he had a belt tied around his neck before being forced inside the property, where his family were inside.
Argentinian Otamendi admitted afterwards that he and his family had been left shaken by the drama.
Using heart and prayer emojis, he wrote on social media: ‘Hello to everyone, my family and I are okay. Many thanks for your messages, they help us to get through this situation better. A huge hug.’
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