The Italian Players’ Association released a statement on the Coronavirus outbreak. “We hope the season can end regularly, but that comes second to the health of our athletes and those who work with them.”
The decision was made after several suspensions to play all games behind closed doors until at least April 3, but that gives no real protection to the players.
“Obviously, the players are not calm and relaxed about this situation,” said Italian Players’ Association (AIC) Vice-President Umberto Calcagno.
The Italian Players’ Association released a statement on the Coronavirus outbreak. “We hope the season can end regularly, but that comes second to the health of our athletes and those who work with them.”
The decision was made after several suspensions to play all games behind closed doors until at least April 3, but that gives no real protection to the players.
“Obviously, the players are not calm and relaxed about this situation,” said Italian Players’ Association (AIC) Vice-President Umberto Calcagno.
“Health is the most important thing and the Government decree allows us to play behind closed doors, but we don’t know what will happen in future.
“We hope the season can end regularly, but that comes second to the health of our athletes and those who work with them. We must guarantee first and foremost the safety of these people, then consider the regularity of the tournament.
“We’ll be very vigilant and ready to make the appropriate decisions. There are some precise protocols to follow, we are in close contact with the association of sports medics.”
Some of the overall advice given to the general public during the Coronavirus outbreak in Italy includes always standing at least one metre from the next person.
“Obviously, it’s difficult to keep one metre distance in training, the dressing room or on the pitch. There are extra risks involved for football players, this is why their efforts should be appreciated.
“It is for now a calculated risk, but if something were to change, we too would reconsider our decisions.”
AIC President and former Roma midfielder Damiano Tommasi also gave a statement to the association website.
“We must take all precautions to safeguard the health of everyone at the stadium, including staff and personnel, to reduce the risks. There are those among the players who are happy to continue, others who express their concerns. There are many foreign players too and it’s obvious their families will be worried watching what’s happening in Italy.”
There have now been 197 deaths related to Coronavirus in Italy and more positive cases than any other European country.