German clubs resume training
German clubs resume training

German clubs resume training

Clubs in the German Bundesliga have been given a ray of hope during the darkest days of world football.
REUTERS
NAMPA/REUTERS

Bundesliga clubs were allowed to return to team training yesterday, with some opting to train players in small groups amid strict measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Soccer in the country has been suspended for almost a month and the German Football League (DFL) has said the ban will remain in place for the top divisions at least until 30 April.

Cleared

Clubs, however, were given the all clear to resume training this week, with champions Bayern Munich deciding to train players in small groups to minimise the risk of infection.

"Obviously all health guidelines are being adhered to," the club said in a statement.

"The training is closed to the public. FC Bayern are asking fans to continue following guidelines and please do not come to the team's training centre."

Numbers rise

Germany has seen the number of infected people rise above 100 000 this weekend and nearly 1 600 have died after testing positive for the virus that has forced the country into lockdown.

Despite the training resumption, the DFL made it clear last week it was not known if or when the season would resume, and the stop in play has also had major financial effects on clubs.

Two weeks ago, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen came together to create a 20-million euro (N$410 million) solidarity fund to help clubs in the top two tiers.

Dortmund have also provided part of their Signal Iduna Park stadium for the treatment of suspected virus cases.

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Namibian Sun 2024-11-22

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