March 12 – Juventus’ Italian international defender Daniele Rugani has tested positive for coronavirus, the first top-flight player to be infected as the outbreak continues to spread.
Juventus said Rugani and “those who have had contact with him” are being isolated. It also said the player is not showing any symptoms of the disease.
The club had said earlier that star forward Cristiano Ronaldo was still in Portugal “pending developments related to the current health emergency” after visiting his mother – who had a stroke last week.
The outbreak of the virus has led to a nationwide lockdown in Italy, where football and all other sports have been suspended until April 3. However, Juventus are scheduled to play French club Lyon at home in the Champions League next Tuesday, currently going ahead behind closed doors.
Rugani was an unused substitute at home against Inter Milan last Sunday. That match was also played in an empty stadium but shortly after Juventus’ announcement about Rugani, Inter Milan released a statement saying the club had decided to suspend “all competitive activities” until further notice.
“The club is currently taking steps to put all the necessary procedures into place.”
That is likely to include self-isolation for all players and staff.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1734805601labto1734805601ofdlr1734805601owedi1734805601sni@w1734805601ahsra1734805601w.wer1734805601dna1734805601