Security cameras recorded two masked individuals on the morning of 15/7 attempting to scale the perimeter wall of Yamal's property. Security personnel quickly detected the unusual activity, activated alarms, and notified the Mossos d'Esquadra police. The suspects fled before they could gain entry to the residence.

Catalonia regional police have initiated an investigation to identify and apprehend the individuals involved.

Lamine Yamal, after the France-Spain match. Reuters

The villa, currently occupied by Lamine Yamal, was previously owned by former Barcelona center-back Gerard Pique. Yamal had showcased the property in a social media video prior to his departure for the World Cup.

This incident highlights a growing trend of professional theft groups targeting football stars. These groups often monitor match schedules and player movements, striking when athletes are away from home. Their primary targets include luxury watches, jewelry, cash, and other high-value assets.

Lamine Yamal is not the only Barcelona player to have fallen victim to such crimes.

In February, center-back Pau Cubarsi's private home in Baix Llobregat was burglarized while he was away training with the team. Thieves made off with numerous valuables, including a high-end watch.

Days later, goalkeeper Joan Garcia's residence was also targeted by thieves while he was with the team competing in the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. The perpetrators stole cash and jewelry before leaving the scene. Local media reports estimated the value of stolen property in each of these incidents at approximately 6,000 euro (6,900 USD).

While investigations suggest that the two incidents involving Cubarsi and Garcia were likely not carried out by the same criminal organization, police note a clear pattern: gangs are increasingly scrutinizing player schedules, family activities, and exploiting periods when homes are unoccupied to commit their offenses.

This surge in thefts against footballers has prompted Spanish clubs to enhance their security protocols and strengthen collaboration between private security firms and local law enforcement agencies.

Despite the off-field incident, Yamal remains focused on a significant career milestone. The 19-year-old forward played a full 90 minutes in Spain's victory over France, helping his team secure a spot in the World Cup final against Argentina.

Nhat Minh (According to El Español)