Former Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira is pressing charges after being assaulted outside a cafe in Istanbul's Beyoglu district by a man allegedly driven by jealousy over the footballer's relationship.
The 30-year-old Galatasaray star was struck in the head following what appeared to be a normal interaction with supporters seeking photographs.
According to reports, the alleged attacker had been waiting outside a shopping centre, planning the ambush on the Uruguayan international.
Police identified the suspect only as YY, and authorities confirmed he would appear before a court.
Torreira said in a statement to police, as reported by CNN Turk: "A man came up to me and said he wanted to take a picture with me.
"After taking a picture with him, I saw another man approaching, and I thought he also wanted to take a picture.
"'After he got close, he suddenly punched me in the left side of my head. I didn't understand what was happening.
"I tried to defend myself, and my driver and my friend, who were there at the time, came to my aid to protect me and remove the individual from the scene."
Lucas Torreira has been attacked in a shopping centre
|GETTY
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The Uruguayan continued: "After separating us, the person got into a taxi and tried to drive away. I did not physically assault this person in any way.
"I don't know why he did something like that, I've never seen him before.
"Following the incident, I went to the hospital for a check-up and I want to submit my reports to you, the officials. I have a headache because of the incident.
"I am filing a complaint and pressing charges against the person in question who assaulted me and caused my injuries."
The midfeilder is pressing charges after the assault
|GETTY
Torreira had "redness between his left eyebrow and eye" after being hit by the attacker.
It was previously reported the suspect had already been issued a restraining order for harassing Torreira's girlfriend.
The suspect is alleged to have made threats against the former Arsenal star on social media as well.
Lucas Torreira has enjoyed success since his move from Arsenal to Turkey
|REUTERS
Torreira played 63 times for Arsenal during his spell in North London, which included loan moves to Atletico Madrid and Fiorentina.
He completed a move to Galatasaray in 2022, having played over 100 times for the Turkish side.
The midfielder has won the Turkish Cup and Super Cup during his tenure at the club so far.
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