Raheem Sterling 'confronted' masked men with knife during burglary at his home

Raheem Sterling was confronted by masked intruders at his home on Saturday night, with the former Manchester City forward taking action to protect his family.

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

The 30-year-old, who currently plays for Chelsea, heard the intruders enter upstairs whilst he was preparing to watch his team's match against Wolves, which kicked off at 8pm. It is reported that approximately five people broke into the property.

Reacting instinctively, Sterling ensured his partner Paige Milian and their sons Thiago, eight, and Thai Cruz, six, were safe before heading upstairs to challenge 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."

The break-in occurred between 6.30pm and 7pm on Saturday evening.

Police officers believe the burglars assumed Sterling would be at Stamford Bridge for the fixture. He is, however, part of the club's bomb-squad, who are not involved in first-team games.

The latest break in marks the third occasion in seven years that Sterling has been targeted by criminals, following previous incidents at homes in Surrey and Cheshire.

A spokesperson for Sterling confirmed: "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 issued a statement saying: '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 are aware of what has happened and are providing support to the player and his family.

Back in December 2022, Sterling departed England's World Cup squad during the competition in Qatar, following a break-in at his Cobham home. Jewellery and watches valued at approximately £300,000 were taken during that burglary.

Emiliano Krosi, aged 24, was convicted of 33 counts of conspiracy to commit burglary last year. Police estimated that items worth around £1,139,000 were taken during a spate of crimes between October 2022 and March 2023.

Surrey Police revealed that Krosi had a highly specific list of criteria for properties he targeted. The burglary occurred in Oxshott, Leatherhead, and was reported to authorities on 3 December 2022.

Sterling was described as being "shaken" and "concerned for the wellbeing of his children". He flew home from the World Cup before subsequently returning to Qatar for the rest of the tournament.

The family were not present at the property when that incident took place.

Sterling's former residence in Goostrey, Cheshire, was also a target for burglars back in 2018, when he played for City. However, the intruders were forced to make a hasty retreat when the alarm system was triggered.