Sterling ‘confronted’ masked men with knife to protect family during burglary

Former Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling reportedly confronted a gang of masked burglars who broke into his Berkshire home while his family were inside on Saturday night.

The 30-year-old Chelsea star was preparing to watch his team’s match against Wolves, which kicked off at 8 pm, when he heard the intruders upstairs. Reports indicate that about five people broke into the property between 6:30 pm and 7 pm.

Reacting instinctively, Sterling ensured the safety of his partner, Paige Milian, and their sons, Thiago (8) and Thai Cruz (6), before heading upstairs to confront the gang.

“He grabbed a knife out of a block in the kitchen and went to confront the intruders,” a source told the Mirror.“It was acting on pure adrenaline but it worked.

“There was a group of them upstairs in masks and they were obviously looking around for any valuables yet again. But this time they made off when they realised that Raheem was at home and he confronted them.”

Police believe the burglars assumed Sterling would be at Stamford Bridge for the fixture. However, he is currently part of the club’s “bomb-squad” and was not included in the matchday squad.

This incident marks the third time in seven years that Sterling has been targeted by burglars, following similar break-ins at his homes in Surrey and Cheshire.

A spokesperson for Sterling confirmed the incident, saying: “We can confirm that Raheem Sterling was the victim of a home break-in this weekend. We can also confirm that he and his children were present at home at the time.

“Whilst the ultimate violation of privacy and safety, we are thankful to be able to confirm that he and his loved ones are all safe. We ask that the privacy of Raheem and his loved ones be respected at this challenging time.”

Thames Valley Police stated, “Officers are conducting a thorough investigation and ask anyone with information, or if they saw anyone in the area acting suspiciously, to contact police.”

Chelsea FC have acknowledged the incident and are providing support to Sterling and his family.

Sterling, who joined Chelsea in 2022 after seven years at Manchester City, also suffered a similar ordeal in December 2022 during the World Cup in Qatar. He flew home after his Cobham residence was broken into, with jewellery and watches worth approximately £300,000 stolen.

That burglary was linked to Emiliano Krosi, who was convicted last year of 33 counts of conspiracy to commit burglary, involving items worth over £1.1 million stolen between October 2022 and March 2023.

At the time, Sterling was described as being “shaken” and “concerned for the wellbeing of his children.”