The Portugal defender said in a post on Instagram Stories that he fought back while protecting his family. He has a 2-year-old daughter, Alicia, with partner Daniela Machado.

``Unfortunately today I was assaulted by four cowards who hurt me and tried to hurt my family,'' Cancelo wrote. ``When you show resistance this is what happens. They managed to take all my jewelry and leave me with my face with this state.``

The photo on Instagram showed a deep cut above his right eyebrow and cuts closer to his eye.

``I don't know how there are people with such meanness,'' he wrote. ``The most important thing for me is my family and luckily they are all OK. And I after many obstacles in my life, this is just one more that I will overcome. Firm and strong, like always.''

Premier League champion City gave more details of the incident.

``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,`` City said in a statement. ``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''.

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