Barcelona legend and the current manager of Qatar side Al Sadd Xavi has tested positive for coronavirus. Xavi revealed on social media that he is asymptomatic and will self-isolate for the time being.
Routine tests were carried for all the personnel involved with the teams ahead of the Qatar Stars League. The former midfielder was found to be tested positive when the results came out and will not be travelling with the team for the upcoming fixtures.
The midfield maestro revealed the news on Instagram while adding that he is feeling okay at the moment. He wrote:
“Today I will not be able to accompany the team on the return to the official competition.
A few days ago and following the @qsl protocol, I gave a positive result in the last COVID-19 test they performed on me. Fortunately, I am in perfect condition but, following the protocol, isolated until I have overcome it.
“When the health authorities allow me, I will join my daily routine and work with more desire than ever. I thank all the authorities and especially those responsible for @qsl, @qfa and @alsaddsc for putting at our disposal all the means for early detection that prevents further contagion and guarantees a normal development of the competition.”
“Take care and see you soon on the football pitch!”
Xavi and Al Sadd’s fate
In the absence of Xavi, assistant manager David Prats will take over his duties at Al Sadd. After the suspension of play in March due to the pandemic, football resumed in Qatar on Friday.
Al Sadd, who lie third on the table with five rounds of fixtures to go, will play Al-Khor on Saturday.
Xavi was touted to manage Barcelona after the board opted to sack Ernesto Valverde. However, the Spaniard opted against the move which prompted the La Liga giants to rope in Quique Seiten.
Xavi proceeded to sign a one-year deal with Al Sadd after only having managed the team for a season after his playing career with the Qatar side. However, there is a special clause in his contract which allows him to leave only for Barcelona in case Seiten gets sacked.
The player was part of a legendary midfield trio alongside Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquests. Xavi was a vital cog in Pep Guardiola‘s tiki-taka system which brought them immense success in Spain and Europe as well.
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