(REUTERS, AFP) - Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo said on Thursday (Dec 30) that he was assaulted during a robbery and posted a picture of himself on Instagram with a cut above his right eye.

The Portugal international did not mention where the incident took place but the club later said it happened at the 27-year-old's home.

"Unfortunately today I was assaulted by four cowards who hurt me and tried to hurt my family," Cancelo said. "When you show resistance this is what happens.

"They managed to take all the jewellery and leave me with my face in this state.

"The most important thing for me is my family and luckily they are all OK."

City said in a statement that they were giving support to the player and his family and that he is helping the police with their inquiries.

“We are shocked and appalled that Joao Cancelo and his family were subjected to a burglary at their home this evening during which Joao was also assaulted.

“Joao and his family are being supported by the club and he is helping the police with their enquiries as they investigate this very serious matter.”

The Portuguese player added: “After so many obstacles in my life this is just one more that I will overcome. Firm and strong, like always.”

Cancelo, who joined City from Juventus in August 2019, is widely considered to have been one of the best players for Pep Guardiola’s Premier League leaders this season.

As an 18-year-old, he was a passenger in a car accident that killed his mother.