The wives and girlfriends of England footballers have been cautioned against flaunting their expensive jewellery during the European Championships 2024 in Germany to prevent potential thefts, as their houses will likely be unoccupied during the tournament.

The warning comes following a series of burglaries targeting high-profile Premier League players’ homes, such as those of Jack Grealish and Joelinton.

“They’ve been reminded of the previous educational sessions which they have had on security,” said a source, quoting the contents of an online reminder sent to England’s WAGS. “The dos and don’ts.”

“Don’t advertise jewellery, display it online or post images inside or outside of their homes.”

In December, a group of burglars stole £1 million worth of jewellery and watches from Manchester City winger Grealish’s home, prompting his frightened family, including partner Sasha Attwood, to activate panic buttons. Authorities responded to the £5.6 million residence to prevent any potential hostage scenario.

Then just last month, Newcastle midfielder Joelinton’s Darras Hall residence was burgled while he and his family attended Newcastle’s match against Bournemouth at St. James’ Park. When authorities reached the multi-million-pound residence, the assailants had already escaped.

According to The Sun, many star footballers fell victim to “away day” burglaries, where thieves struck while teams were away for matches. This was the case for former Man United winger Jesse Lingard, who was robbed while playing for the Red Devils away at Aston Villa in January 2022. Similarly, Lingard’s former teammate Victor Lindelöf’s home in Hale was raided during the same month while he was playing in Brentford.

In response to these break-ins, multiple Premier League stars are seeking advice from architects to construct panic rooms in their upscale residences before leaving the country for the Euros this summer. Lindelöf is among those who already possess one, which was used by his wife and children during the aforementioned 2022 home invasion.

A large group of WAGs, including Fern Maguire, 28, wife of Man United defender Harry Maguire, along with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford’s wife Megan Davison, 27, are poised to accompany captain Harry Kane and the England team to Germany. Grealish’s girlfriend, Sasha Attwood, 27, alongside Luke Shaw’s partner Anouska Santos, 31, are also expected to join them.

Enhancing home security while abroad

The gang responsible for targeting Grealish is suspected to be connected to the burglaries of former Liverpool player Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Love Island stars Molly Mae Hague and Tommy Fury. They used ladders to access the balconies of the master bedrooms of each mansion, hence they are dubbed the “Balcony Burglars.”

These raids should remind homeowners to be mindful that burglars frequently target windows for easier access compared to doors. Intruders often focus on upper windows to evade alarm sensors on lower floors, utilising ladders found in gardens or brought along with them.

To ensure safety against these burglars, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UNHWIs) should make sure windows on upper floors have locks or sash stops. Homeowners should also extend any alarm sensor coverage to upper rooms. 

Always opt for security-accredited windows tested to British standards and approved by insurance companies, such as PAS 24 2022. Consult a locksmith affiliated with the Master Locksmiths Association for recommendations on the appropriate window locks.

Apart from windows, HNWIs and UHNWIs should enhance their overall home security before being away for extended periods. The UK police have published a checklist to secure homes before the owners leave them. This includes double-locking all entrances, keeping valuables and keys out of sight, closing curtains, and leaving lights on to create the illusion of occupancy.

For enhanced security, consider contacting security firms like Marengo. They offer expertise in identifying security vulnerabilities, creating customised security plans, and deploying appropriate resources, including personnel and infrastructure, tailored to each residence.