Manchester City have confirmed that forward Riyad Mahrez and defender Aymeric Laporte have been diagnosed with coronavirus.
The coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc in the world of football as two new high-profile cases have recently emerged.
Manchester City duo Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte have been found affected by the deadly virus.
The two players are no showing any symptoms of the disease though and have entered quarantine as per the health regulations.
A statement on City’s official website released on Monday read: “Manchester City FC can confirm that Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte have tested positive for Covid-19.
“Both players are currently observing a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine. Neither is displaying symptoms of the virus.
“Everyone at the Club wishes Riyad and Aymeric a speedy recovery ahead of their return to training and the new season.”
The news comes just five days prior to the start of the 2020/21 Premier League season. The Sky Blues, however, have been permitted to skip the opening matchday due to their late finish to the previous season. They will instead start the new season on September 21 when they welcome Wolves.
Regardless, the participation of both Mahrez and Laporte remains doubtful for the season opener at the Etihad.
Manager Pep Guardiola is also currently observing self-isolation, having recently returned from a trip to Spain. In the head coach’s absence, assistant manager Juan Manuel Lillo will oversee the pre-season preparations for the team.