The Bundesliga match ball
The Bundesliga match ball

Bundesliga return: 10 positive Covid-19 tests in Bundesliga 1 and 2 ahead of proposed return


With a decision set to be made about the resumption of the Bundesliga this week, it's been revealed that ten people connected to teams in the top two divisions have tested positive for coronavirus.

Cologne had already announced that three people at the club tested positive for coronavirus - yet training will continue ahead of the Bundesliga's return.

The German top flight looks set to become the first major league to return to action as the world continues to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic, but there have been more positive tests in the build-up.

The German Football League (DFL) said 1,724 tests had been conducted on players and staff at the 36 first and second tier sides since last Thursday, who are building towards a return to action this month subject to government approval.

The DFL said the 10 individuals had been isolated and that a second round of testing on all participants would take place this week as clubs build towards a return to team training.

A decision on whether the DFL's plans meet with government approval is expected on Wednesday, with the Bundesliga now not likely to resume until May 16 at the earliest.

Meanwhile, in Spain, the national federation (RFEF) says it shares the desire of 2020 Copa del Rey finalists Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad to delay the final until such a time as it can be safely played in front of a crowd.

The RFEF said it would look at an "appropriate time" for the game to be played either later this year or in 2021, provided it was played in advance of the 2021 Copa del Rey final.

The Ligue de Football Professionnel in France says it has taken out a loan in order to pay clubs in the top two tiers the broadcasting revenue they were due to receive for the remainder of the 2019-20 season.

The French season has been forced to conclude by a government order, with Paris St Germain declared champions.

How does the return of football stand around Europe?

Follow Sporting Life on social - find us on Facebook here or tweet @SportingLifeFC

Related football content

Responsible gambling

We are committed in our support of responsible gambling. Recommended bets are advised to over-18s and we strongly encourage readers to wager only what they can afford to lose.

Sky Bet's responsible gambling tools are detailed here and if you are concerned about your gambling, please call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, or visit begambleaware.org.

Further support and information can be found at GamCare and gamblingtherapy.org.