Arthur Melo, a midfielder currently on loan to Girona from Juventus, was the victim of a robbery on Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Barcelona, Spain. The incident occurred around 4 PM local time on Passeig de Gràcia, one of the busiest avenues in the Catalan city.
According to reports from the Spanish newspaper AS, Arthur was returning from a shopping trip when he was approached by two assailants in a parking lot. In a matter of seconds, one of the thieves snatched his luxury watch and fled on a motorcycle driven by an accomplice. Fortunately, the 28-year-old Brazilian was not injured during the incident and promptly filed a police report.
This incident is not the first time Arthur has faced such a situation in Spain. The former Barcelona player has had other watches stolen and has been a victim of home invasions in the past. In 2019, while playing for Liverpool, his home was broken into during a Champions League match, resulting in the theft of valuable items, including another luxury watch.
Despite the unsettling experience, Arthur participated in Girona's training session the following day, Friday, April 4, 2025, and is expected to be available for the match against Alavés on Saturday, April 5, 2025, as part of the Spanish Championship. Girona currently sits in 13th place in the league and is looking for a victory to keep their hopes alive for a spot in European competitions.
Arthur began his professional career at Grêmio before being transferred to Barcelona in 2018. After two seasons, he moved to Juventus, where he was loaned to Liverpool and Fiorentina before joining Girona in February 2025. Since his arrival in Catalonia, he has played in six matches, totaling 290 minutes on the pitch without scoring or providing assists.
As the match against Alavés approaches, the Girona team is eager to secure a win. Coach Míchel has emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, noting that it could be crucial for their aspirations in the league. Arthur's experience and skill will be vital for the team's performance as they look to improve their standings.
The incident has raised concerns about player safety in major cities, especially for athletes who often draw attention due to their fame and wealth. Many fans and commentators have expressed their dismay at the crime, highlighting the need for better security measures in urban areas.
Arthur's experience serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by professional athletes off the field. While they are celebrated for their talents and achievements, they can also become targets for crime. As he prepares for the match against Alavés, Arthur remains focused on his career and the support of his teammates and fans.
In the wake of the robbery, Arthur has received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow players, many of whom have taken to social media to express their solidarity. The incident has sparked discussions about safety and security for athletes, particularly in cities known for their vibrant nightlife and high-profile residents.
As Girona gears up for their next match, the team is rallying around Arthur, demonstrating the camaraderie and resilience that often characterize sports teams. The players are determined to turn the page on this unfortunate incident and focus on their performance on the field.
In conclusion, Arthur Melo's robbery in Barcelona highlights the vulnerabilities faced by professional athletes in their daily lives. While he has experienced setbacks, his determination to continue playing and contributing to his team remains unwavering. The Girona squad is set to take on Alavés, with their sights firmly set on a much-needed victory.
