BREAKING: Lionel Messi tests positive for COVID-19
PSG superstar Lionel Messi has tested positive for COVID-19, the Ligue 1 club announced on Sunday. The Argentine is among four players to have contracted the virus within the PSG camp.
🦠Leo Messi, Rico, Bernat & Bitumazala are the 4 players tested positive.
In addition to Lionel Messi, the likes of Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala are the other PSG players who tested positive after the latest round of testing.
Tests carried out during the winter break and before the resumption of training revealed 4 positive cases for Covid-19 among the players and 1 positive case among the staff. The people concerned are subject to the Covid protocols.
The French club confirmed all players are now under isolation and will follow strict health protocols.
PSG are set to face fourth-tier club Vannes OC in the French Cup on Monday.
Notably, Lionel Messi spent the winter break in Ligue 1 with his family back in Argentina. The forward posted pictures of himself along with the family on Instagram.
Since he contracted the virus while away from PSG, Lionel Messi will remain in Argentina for the time being as per reports.
Lionel Messi doubtful for Lyon clash: Pochettino
PSG head coach Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that Lionel Messi may not be available for the Ligue 1 clash against Lyon next Sunday. The French giants will face Lyon away from home after their cup game against Vannes.
Speaking at a press-conference ahead of the clash with Vannes, Pochettino stated:
"I don't know [if he will be available vs. Lyon next Sunday]. As long as his test is not negative, he will not be able to return to France."
Lionel Messi, who won a record-extending seventh Ballon d'Or in November, has registered six goals and five assists in 16 appearances across competitions for PSG.
Even in his absence, PSG are expected to dominate Ligue 1. Pochettino's men have already established a 13-point lead at the top. However, they will be hoping Messi can get back to his devastating best before the Champions League round of 16 clash against Real Madrid in February.