Champions League face problem after 2 Atletico members test positive for COVID-19

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

With the semifinals nearing in the grand Champions League, the organizing committee is now facing a major setback after two members of Atletico Madrid tested positive for COVID-19.

Vying for a ticket to the top four, Atletico had to regroup after two of its members contracted the virus in the recent testing conducted by the league.

“On Saturday, all members of the first team and the club’s party to Lisbon underwent tests as required by UEFA protocols to participate in the quarterfinals of the Champions League. Among the results known today, two positives have appeared and they are self-isolating in their respective homes,” the club’s statement said.

The situation will force the football club to overhaul their travel and practice schedules, including another fresh round of testing among all the members of the team.

As of now, neither the club nor the league has disclosed whether the two members that were positive are players, part of the coaching staff, or one of their personnel.

“The club will coordinate the new schedules with UEFA and as soon as there is a new plan it will be made public. We also request the utmost respect over the identity of the two positive cases,” continued the statement.