Former Barcelona and Liverpool midfielder Arthur Melo has fallen victim to a robbery in central Barcelona this week. The Brazilian international, currently on loan at Girona from Juventus, was targeted while shopping in the Catalan capital.

The 28-year-old was reportedly spending the afternoon in Barcelona following Girona’s training session. While paying for a parking ticket at Passeig de Gràcia around 16:00, he was approached from behind and robbed in a matter of seconds by two individuals, according to Diario AS.

• One snatched his watch, while the other waited on a motorbike to facilitate a quick getaway.

• Arthur did not suffer any physical harm but later visited a police station to file a report.

A Growing Issue in Barcelona

Arthur is the latest high-profile footballer to fall victim to crime in the city. While pickpocketing is common in Barcelona, there has been a notable rise in targeted attacks on footballers in recent years.

• Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was among the most well-known victims, suffering a violent assault during a burglary.

• It remains unclear whether Arthur was specifically targeted due to his status or was simply an opportunistic victim.

Focus on Football Amidst Uncertainty

Despite the incident, Arthur returned to Girona training this morning, preparing for a crucial La Liga clash against Alavés on Sunday.

• The on-loan Juventus midfielder has featured in every match under Michel Sánchez since making his debut against Getafe in mid-February.

• He has started Girona’s last three matches as they look to avoid being drawn into a relegation battle.

Arthur previously spent three years at Barcelona after joining the club from Grêmio in 2018 for €31m. He later moved to Juventus for €80.5m in 2021, with loan spells at Liverpool, Fiorentina, and now Girona.

With two years remaining on his contract at Juventus and no clear place in their plans, his future remains uncertain.