Rugani, Juventus defender, tests positive for coronavirus

Juventus FC have confirmed that Daniele Rugani, one of its defenders, has tested positive for coronavirus.

On Wednesday night, the Italian club announced that Rugani has confirmed that he has contracted the disease, although he is currently not showing any symptoms.

The 25-year-old defender, who was on the bench in Juventus 2-0 win over Inter Milan on March 8, is also said to have now been quarantined, in a bid to reduce the risk of him spreading the virus to his teammates.

“The footballer, Daniele Rugani has tested positive for Coronavirus-COVID-19 and is currently asymptomatic,” the club wrote.

“Juventus Football Club is currently activating all the isolation procedures required by law, including those who have had contact with him.”

The Italy international is the first player from the club to test positive for the virus and arguably the biggest current footballer to have contracted the killer virus. Timo Hubers of Hannover 96 had earlier disclosed that he was diagnosed for the disease.

The coronavirus outbreak is causing havoc for sporting activities across Europe, with Italy its notable hotspot.

Football matches in the European country have been suspended until April 3, due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

The deadly virus has so far killed 827 persons in the country — with 196 new deaths recorded in the last couple of hours.