Premier League game between Manchester City and Arsenal which was scheduled for tonight has been postponed “as a precautionary measure” because of coronavirus.
The decision to postpone the big clash between the two sides came after some players and staff of Arsenal had contact with the Olympiacos owner Evangelos Marinakis, who has now been diagnosed with Coronavirus.
The wealthy Greek businessman, who also owns Nottingham Forest, watched the Greek side beat the north London club at the Emirates Stadium during their last month’s Europa League clash, and met multiple players and officials afterward.
As a precaution, the players and staff affected have been placed in self-isolation for 14-days, but Thursday will be the last day of the isolation.That is because the meeting between Marinakis and the Arsenal officials took place 13 days ago.
The Premier League said in a statement: “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.”
The club also released a statement confirming that some players have been placed in self-isolation.
“We identified that a number of players met the Olympiacos owner immediately following the game.”
“The medical advice we have received puts the risk of them developing Covid-19 at extremely low.
“However, we are strictly following the Government guidelines which recommend that anyone coming into close contact with someone with the virus should self-isolate at home for 14 days from the last time they had contact
“As a result, the players are unavailable for tonight’s match against Manchester City and the Premier League has decided the game should be postponed.”
“The players will remain at their homes until the 14-day period expires.
“Four Arsenal staff – who were sitting close to Mr Marinakis during the match – will also remain at home until the 14 days are complete.
“We fully understand how disappointing this is for our supporters, in particular those who were travelling to Manchester for tonight’s match. Tickets will be valid for the match when it’s rearranged.”
