By Adegboyega Adeleye

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes’ home was burgled while the midfielder was in Italy with his team for their 4-1 Champions League defeat by Como on Wednesday, with police investigating the incident.

According to ESPN, Fernandes’ family were not believed to have been at the property when the burglary occurred on Wednesday, October 21. Police attended the scene and Manchester United are supporting their captain.

A statement from Cheshire Police, given to ESPN, said officers were called at about 8.30 pm to reports of suspicious activity at an address in the Alderley Park area of Nether Alderley.

“The caller reported three unknown men in the rear garden of a neighbouring property,” the statement said.

Officers found no trace of the suspects when they arrived but discovered that a burglary had taken place and a number of items had been stolen.

“An investigation into the incident has been launched and enquiries are ongoing,” police added.

Detective Inspector David Jarvis of Macclesfield Proactive CID said the investigation was at an early stage, adding that officers were working to identify those responsible.

Police have appealed to anyone who was in the area at the time and may have witnessed suspicious activity to come forward. They also urged residents with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to assist the investigation.

The burglary came as United endured a difficult spell on the pitch, with their 4-1 defeat to Como extending their winless run to seven matches in all competitions.

Fernandes publicly questioned the tactical approach of head coach Michael Carrick after the Champions League loss, saying the decision not to press opponents man-to-man and to leave space behind was a matter for the coaching staff.

His comments followed criticism from United defender Lisandro Martínez the previous week, adding to scrutiny of the club’s leadership and performances.

Despite the heavy defeat and questions over Carrick’s future, the United manager is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League match against Bournemouth, ESPN reported.

Fernandes, who was one of United’s standout performers last season, has struggled to reproduce the same form this campaign as the club faces growing pressure to improve its results.