The incident took place on Wednesday evening, with Fernandes in Italy as United lost 4-1. BBC Sport reported that his family were not at home when the break-in happened and that the intruders were inside for fewer than five minutes before police arrived.
Cheshire Police said officers were called at around 8.30pm on 21 October following reports of suspicious activity in the Alderley Park area of Nether Alderley. A caller had reported three unknown men in the rear garden of a neighbouring property.
By the time officers reached the scene, the men had left. Police subsequently discovered that a burglary had taken place and that several items had been stolen. The investigation remains ongoing.
Manchester United are supporting Fernandes and his family following the incident. The club has also asked for privacy as they deal with the break-in.
Fernandes joined United from Sporting CP in January 2020 and has become one of the club’s central figures. He is the latest footballer to be targeted while away playing for his team.
Manchester City midfielder Rúben Dias’s home was burgled in January while City were playing Galatasaray in the Champions League. Other footballers whose homes have been targeted in the same part of Cheshire include Jack Grealish, Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez.
The burglary comes during a difficult period for United. Their defeat at Como extended their winless run to seven matches and brought renewed scrutiny of head coach Michael Carrick.
After the match, Fernandes spoke critically about United’s tactics, adding to the questions around Carrick’s future. Reports indicate that the captain will not be disciplined for his comments and is expected to retain the armband.
Police have appealed for information from anyone who was in the area at the time and may have seen something suspicious. The investigation is continuing.