The Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal, due to take place on Wednesday night at the Etihad, has been postponed over coronavirus fears.
It emerged earlier this week that a number of Arsenal players and staff members had come into contact with Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos owner Evangelos Marinakis, who on Tuesday confirmed he has contracted Covid-19.
With those unnamed Arsenal players and staff now set to undergo a 14-day self-isolation period, the Premier League has postponed Wednesday’s fixture at the Etihad.
A statement read: ‘Tonight’s game between Manchester City and Arsenal has been postponed as a precautionary measure following the announcement yesterday that Evangelos Marinakis has contracted COVID-19.
‘Thirteen days ago, Olympiakos played at the Emirates Stadium in the Europa League and Mr Marinakis, the Greek club’s owner, met with several Arsenal squad members and staff.
‘Following medical advice, Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC consider it is necessary to postpone their fixture due to be played this evening to give time to fully assess the situation.
‘The Premier League has therefore agreed that tonight’s game will be rearranged.
‘We understand this will cause inconvenience and cost to fans planning to attend the game but Arsenal, Manchester City and the Premier League have agreed that the short notice of Mr Marinakis’ infection means there is no alternative but to take the time to complete a proper assessment of risk.
‘All necessary measures are being taken and the Premier League currently has no plans to postpone any other matches.’
More than 119,000 people have contracted Covid-19 worldwide, with the virus killing over 4,200 people.
Revealing he had contracted coronavirus, Forest and Olympiakos owner Marinakis said on Tuesday: ‘The recent virus has “visited” me and I felt obliged to let the public know.
‘I feel good as I take all the necessary measures and I discipline to the doctor’s instructions.’
Defending Premier League champions Manchester City are currently second in the English top-flight, 25 points behind Liverpool, while Arsenal are ninth.
The Gunners, now managed by former City coach Mikel Arteta, were knocked out of the Europa League by Olympiakos.
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