Former Arsenal Midfielder Lucas Torreira Attacked in Istanbul Shopping Centre Incident

Former Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira is reportedly pursuing legal action in Turkey after allegedly being assaulted in a shopping centre attack in Istanbul.

The 30-year-old, who currently plays for Turkish giants Galatasaray, was attacked outside a café in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district on Tuesday after reportedly stopping to take photographs with supporters.
According to reports in Turkish media, the alleged attacker had been waiting outside the shopping centre before approaching the midfielder.
Torreira later informed police that the suspect unexpectedly struck him on the left side of his head after initially appearing to request a photograph.
The former Arsenal player stated that one of his friends and his driver immediately intervened during the incident, with the driver allegedly punching the suspect in an attempt to separate the pair.
Footage circulated by Turkish media appeared to show the suspect being kicked while on the ground before attempting to flee the scene.
The suspect, identified by police only as “YY”, and Torreira’s driver were both reportedly taken into custody as authorities launched an investigation into the altercation.
Speaking in a statement to police, as reported by CNN Turk, Torreira explained the sequence of events.
“A man approached me and said he wanted to take a picture with me. After taking the picture, I noticed another man approaching and assumed he also wanted a photograph,” Torreira reportedly said.
“After he came closer, he suddenly punched me on the left side of my head. I did not understand what was happening.
“I tried to defend myself, and my driver and my friend who were with me came to help protect me and remove the individual from the scene. After we were separated, the person got into a taxi and attempted to leave. I did not physically assault him in any way.
“I do not know why he did such a thing. I have never seen him before. Following the incident, I went to hospital for medical checks and I intend to submit the reports to the authorities. I have suffered headaches as a result of the incident.
“I am filing a complaint and pressing charges against the individual who assaulted me and caused my injuries.”
Medical examinations reportedly revealed redness between Torreira’s left eyebrow and eye following the incident.
A police statement confirmed that the suspect was expected to appear in court on Wednesday.
Reports in Turkey also claimed that the suspect had previously been subject to a restraining order relating to allegations of harassment involving Torreira’s girlfriend. The individual was also said to have a prior conviction for intentional bodily harm.
The suspect is further alleged to have made threatening comments towards Torreira on social media, with reports suggesting jealousy over the footballer’s relationship may have been a motive behind the attack.
Since joining Galatasaray from Arsenal in 2022, Torreira has enjoyed considerable success in Turkish football, helping the club secure four league titles. The Uruguayan midfielder has also won the Turkish Cup and the Turkish Super Cup during his time in Istanbul.