FOOTBALL: Four Atlético Madrid players are now known to have contracted Covid-19. The players are isolating at home as per the government guidelines and coronavirus protocols set out by La Liga.
At the end of last week, Yannick Carrasco and team-mate, Mario Hermos tested positive. This was followed by João Félix and now the latest to test positive is Moussa Dembele.
La Liga
Atlético remains at the top of the La Liga table. However, the club surely cannot afford to have players in doubt as to whether they will be available for the starting 11. This is such a crucial part of the season with some important games coming up this month.
There are two La Liga games within the next week. The first is on Monday at home against Celta Vigo, and the second away on Saturday to Granada.
UEFA Champions League
Their UEFA champions league round 16, first leg game against Chelsea is due to take place at home on 23rd February. However, the Club is considering finding an alternative stadium for this game according to Diario AS. They will wait to see what happens with regard to the pandemic as currently, British citizens are unable to access Spain due to Covid restrictions. These restrictions are due to be reviewed on 16th February.
Success
Last season 27-year-old Belgian, Carrasco, scored 3 goals and 5 assists in his 19 appearances for Atletico Madrid. He was also part of the team to lift the 2018 UEFA Europa League title. Spanish defender, Hermoso (25) has scored twice in 20 matches this season. Less than a year ago, 21-year-old forward João Félix from Portugal signed a record-breaking 7-year contract for Athletico. He is thought to be one of the best players of his generation. On the other hand, French striker Dembele has still to make his Club debut.
As yet, it is unclear how many Atlético Madrid players will be unavailable for Monday´s game against Celta Vigo.
