Man City star Joao Cancelo opens up on Christmas robbery that his family fearing for their lives

Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo has revealed how a robbery over Christmas traumatised his family.

The 27-year-old was attacked in his home as he confronted four burglars and still has facial injuries from the incident just before New Year. 

Cancelo’s partner, Daniela, and baby daughter were in the house at the time of the break-in.

The defender on Monday opened up on the mental trauma they have suffered. 

Cancelo pictured with his partner Daniela – they have a baby daughter together called Alicia

‘It was horrific. It terrorised my family,’ said Cancelo. ‘They didn’t deserve to go through that. That’s life. It happens.’

The Portugal international labelled the intruders – who stole jewellery – as cowards and remarkably made himself available for selection when City beat Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium two days after the incident.

City staff were on hand to assist his family when he was away that weekend.

Cancelo has since signed a new deal with the club and believes he is equipped to cope with any setback after his mother, Filomena, died in a car accident when he was just 18. 

Cancelo was in the vehicle with his brother, Pedro, and suffered minor injuries. He often dedicates his successes to Filomena.

Cancelo pictured with his daughter – his family were at home when the attack happened

Manchester City said in a statement shortly after that Cancelo is assisting police investigations

‘I lost my mother and I had to continue,’ he added. 

‘There have been lots of obstacles in my life and I’ve had to get over them. However much people try to make me suffer they won’t achieve it.’

Cancelo also admitted that communication difficulties with boss Pep Guardiola during his first season at City were of his own making. 

The former Juventus man considered his future after a tricky debut campaign but has since flourished.

‘The complication with the coach was that I hadn’t adapted to the way the team were playing,’ he said. ‘Juve had a different way. It was my fault, I had to adapt.

‘I managed to recover, like in life, with my desire.’