La Liga side Valencia have stated that more than one-third of the playing and backroom staff have tested positive for the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 but all the cases were asymptomatic.
The club which is touted as one of the major footballing forces in the world reported five cases of the virus on Sunday as Ezequiel Garay and Eliaquim Mangalo both confirmed that they are among the people who have contracted the deadly virus.
Valencia affected by COVID-19
"Several further tests for the COVID-19 coronavirus amongst Valencia coaching staff and players have come back positive," the club said in a statement. Valencia travelled to Milan last month for a Champions League match against Atalanta, which was played in front of a packed San Siro stadium before restrictions were placed on sports events in Italy — the worst-hit country in Europe.
"Despite the strict measures adopted by the club after their Champions League game ... these latest results show the exposure inherent to such matches has caused a positive test rate of around 35 percent," Valencia added. "All cases are asymptomatic and those involved are currently isolated at home, receiving medical assessment and carrying out their scheduled training plan."
The flu-like virus has wiped out the international sporting calendar, with the big five soccer leagues in Europe — England, Spain, Germany, Italy and France — as well as the Champions League and Europa League all suspended. The coronavirus has infected almost 180,000 people and killed over 7,000 worldwide.
(With agency inputs)
