Portugal has seen another high-profile burglary, this time involving national football coach Roberto Martinez and his wife, Beth Thompson.
The couple’s elegant home in Cascais, a seaside town west of Lisbon known for its luxury properties, was broken into while they were away for just a few hours.
Burglars Strike During Afternoon Outing
Martinez and his wife reportedly left their house for about four hours on Saturday afternoon.
In that window of time, burglars forced entry through a window and combed through every room, leaving with a significant haul of valuables.
Police believe the thieves carefully planned the break-in, knowing the couple would be gone long enough for them to act without interruption.
Watches and Jewellery Taken
What exactly was stolen is still being clarified.
Portuguese broadcaster SIC reported that the loss was around £87,000, but local daily Correio da Manha claimed the items could be worth as much as £700,000.
Among the stolen goods were designer watches and jewellery belonging to the couple.
Police Focus on International Gang
Forensic teams have already examined the home for clues, while investigators from Portugal’s PSP police are exploring the possibility that a foreign gang specializing in luxury property heists may be responsible.
Authorities have not disclosed the full list of stolen items, but the targeted and efficient nature of the break-in suggests experienced criminals.
Roberto Martinez Silent After the Incident
The 52-year-old coach, who played for clubs such as Wigan, Motherwell, and Chester City before moving into management, has yet to comment publicly on the burglary.
Martinez has had a high-profile career managing Swansea, Wigan, Everton, and Belgium before taking charge of Portugal in January 2023.
Under his leadership, Portugal lifted their second UEFA Nations League trophy last June, after a dramatic penalty win against Spain.
A Look at His Family Life
Martinez married Beth Thompson in 2009 at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Swansea.
Their wedding was as memorable as it was unconventional, with their Pomeranian dog Leo serving as the chief bridesmaid and Jordi Cruyff, the former Manchester United midfielder, standing as best man.
The couple, who first met in 2002 in Glasgow, now share two daughters, Luella and Safiana.
Not the First Footballer Targeted
This is not the first time football figures in Portugal have faced violent or high-value break-ins.
In December 2021, Argentine defender Nicolas Otamendi, then playing for Benfica, was attacked outside his home.
Reports revealed that robbers tied a belt around his neck and forced him inside while his wife and children were present.
Although Otamendi later reassured fans on social media that his family was safe, the ordeal left them deeply shaken.
Growing Concerns Over Security
The latest burglary raises ongoing concerns about the security of wealthy residents in Portugal’s high-end neighborhoods.
As police continue their investigation, many are left wondering how such carefully orchestrated crimes keep targeting the homes of top athletes and managers, even in one of Europe’s most desirable coastal towns.