Yves Bissouma has revealed that his most recent off-field incident stemmed from feelings of “paranoia” following a traumatic burglary at his home.
The Tottenham midfielder was recently filmed inhaling from a nitrous oxide balloon, a substance classified as a Class C drug in 2023 under the UK government’s anti-social behaviour laws. Spurs confirmed the matter would be handled internally. However, speaking to The Sun, Bissouma explained that a break-in at his property in July had a profound impact on his mental state.
Bissouma described the burglary as a life-altering experience, apologising to supporters and admitting it left him struggling with fear, anxiety, depression and paranoia. He said the incident “broke something” inside him that he never knew could break.
After the break-in, Bissouma posted videos showing the damage and claimed the burglars had taken everything, including luxury bags, watches and jewellery.
The Mali international has been targeted multiple times by criminals. It was the third burglary he had suffered, having previously been forced to escape through the back of his home last November when masked men tried to break down his front door. Reflecting on the ordeal, the 29-year-old said he often questioned why he was repeatedly targeted and stressed that the loss went far beyond material possessions, leaving him with sleepless nights and a constant sense of mistrust.
Adding to his difficulties, Bissouma also claimed that a friend stole £1 million from him earlier this year.
On the pitch, Bissouma has yet to feature for Tottenham this season. He was left out of the squad for their UEFA Super Cup defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, with head coach Thomas Frank later confirming the decision was due to disciplinary issues, citing repeated lateness.
Bissouma has previously faced sanctions after posting a video of himself using a nitrous oxide balloon on social media last season, which resulted in a one-match ban and saw him miss Spurs’ draw with Leicester City. He later admitted the post showed a serious lapse in judgment and reiterated that he takes his responsibilities as a footballer and role model seriously.
Injuries have further compounded what has been a difficult 2025 for the midfielder.
