Former Southhampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini who is currently signed to Serie A team Sampdoria has been diagnosed with the coronavirus. Gabbiadini is the only second Serie A player after Daniele Rugani to be tested positive for the COVID- 19.
The Italian club immediately announced that their player was tested positive for the virus but was in any immediate danger. The club released a statement that read:
“UC Sampdoria announces that Manolo Gabbiadini has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). Gabbiadini has a slight fever but is otherwise fine. The club is activating all isolation procedures as set out by the authorities.”
Gabbiadini also revealed the result through his tweet and wrote:
“I've tested positive for coronavirus. I want to thank you all for the many messages I've received. I also want to let you know that I'm fine, so don't worry. Follow the rules, stay at home and everything will work out.”
Sono risultato positivo anche io al Coronavirus. Voglio ringraziare tutti quelli che mi hanno scritto, mi sono arrivati già tantissimi messaggi. Ci tengo comunque a dirvi che sto bene, quindi non preoccupatevi. Seguite tutti le norme, restate a casa e tutto si risolverà. pic.twitter.com/YIa9knMAK8
— Manolo Gabbiadini (@Mgabbia23) March 12, 2020
Gabbiadini was also in the Sampdoria's team that played against Hellas Verona inside the closed doors on Sunday and played for 61 minutes. Soon after the Sampdoria forward was diagnosed with the virus, Verona has canceled all the club's activities.
The virus has already caused 827 reported deaths in Italy with over 12,000 confirmed cases. Meanwhile, COVID- 19 was also found to have affected several other sporting events and players. Premier League club Arsenal's Manager Mikel Arteta was ested positive for the virus. Moreover, Chelsea's teenager Callum Hudson-Odoi was also discovered to have been infected with the virus.