Cagliari midfielder Radja Nainggolan admits he is “afraid” he could catch coronavirus and pass it on to his wife, who is battling cancer.
Italy is considered the worldwide epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, having recently overtaken China as the country with the most deaths from the virus.
The issue is particularly sensitive for Nainggolan, whose partner Claudia has cancer and is therefore higher risk if she catches coronavirus.
Cagliari midfielder Radja Nainggolan admits he is “afraid” he could catch coronavirus and pass it on to his wife, who is battling cancer.
Italy is considered the worldwide epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, having recently overtaken China as the country with the most deaths from the virus.
The issue is particularly sensitive for Nainggolan, whose partner Claudia has cancer and is therefore higher risk if she catches coronavirus.
“Coronavirus is a big problem, we’re only talking about this,” the Inter loanee said on Instagram.
“Hospitals are being avoided and therapies are being pushed back a bit.
“It’s therefore hoped that everything will go well as quickly as possible because she [Claudia] still has a weak immune system.
“Therefore, she’s avoiding hospitals. There are waiting lists that determine when she can go next.
“Now, when I go shopping, there’s a risk that I can catch the virus. When I get home, I’m afraid I could pass it on to her, but I’m careful and I think everything went well.
“We’ve already gone through the toughest period, things are going in the right direction right now.”
The 31-year-old was talking to Kat Kekhofs, wife of Napoli forward and former Belgium teammate Dries Mertens.
“Football has always been a hobby for me and I was able to make it my job, but I try to live as much as possible like a ‘normal’ person.
“The most important things for me are my successes and the education of my children.
“I want to be an example on the field, but it’s also up to parents to train their children.
“Unlike the others, I’m not hiding. Every day can be the your one and that’s why I want to live life to the fullest.“