The coronavirus pandemic could cost Europe's 20 highest earning football clubs over two billion euros ($2.4 billion, £1.4 billion), according to forecasts from financial experts Deloitte.

Deloitte's latest Football Money League report shows that revenues of the 20 clubs analysed fell by 1.1 billion euros in the 2019/20 season due to closed stadiums and television rebates.

Some of that revenue will be recouped in the accounts for the 2020/21 season. The financial year at most clubs ends on June 30, meaning some prize money and broadcast income for domestic leagues and European competitions that completed beyond that date is not included in last season's figures.&nbsp;

However, the ongoing effects of the virus will make an even bigger dent on club finances in 20/21 with stadia largely shut to supporters across the continent for the entire season so far and little sign of restrictions being eased.

Even as the games have gone on behind closed doors, broadcasters have been compensated for a disruption to the original schedule and the lack of atmosphere produced by empty stadiums.

Rebates for Europe's 'top five' leagues in England, Spain, Germany, France and Italy, and UEFA's Champions League and Europa League competitions already total almost 1.2 billion euros.

"We usually release our money league and talk about the growth in revenue but of course football is not immune to the Covid-19 pandemic," said Tim Bridge of Deloitte's Sports Business Group.

"The revenue that's been missed out on is driven by the lack of fans in the stadium, the lack of interaction on a matchday - fans spending in the club shop and buying food and drink - and there is an element that relates to revenue that broadcasters have either clawed back or deferred to next year."

Spanish giants Barcelona maintained their position at the top of the revenue table despite their income falling 15 percent to 715 million euros.

However, the Catalans are still mired in an economic crisis due to spiralling debts of 1.2 billion euros according to accounts released by the club on Monday.

Real Madrid remain second, just 200,000 euros behind Barca's revenue.

Bayern Munich leapfrogged Manchester United into third due to the latter missing out on Champions League football last season.

In fourth, United are still the highest ranking English club among seven Premier League sides -- also featuring Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal and Everton -- in the top 20.

Zenit St Petersburg are the only club outside the top five leagues among the list.

The impact of the pandemic has seen some of the biggest clubs push through competition reform to guarantee bigger revenues.

Speculation has mounted over a breakaway European Super League, but last week FIFA and UEFA warned any players that took part in such a competition would risk being banned from major international tournaments such as the World Cup.

The coronavirus pandemic could cost Europe's 20 highest earning football clubs over two billion euros ($2.4 billion, £1.4 billion), according to forecasts from financial experts Deloitte.

The coronavirus pandemic could cost Europe's 20 highest earning football clubs over two billion euros ($2.4 billion, £1.4 billion), according to forecasts from financial experts Deloitte. Deloitte's latest Football Money League report shows that revenues of the 20 clubs analysed fell by 1.1 billion euros in the 2019/20 season due to closed stadiums and television rebates. Some of that revenue will be recouped in the accounts for the 2020/21 season. The financial year at most clubs ends on June 30, meaning some prize money and broadcast income for domestic leagues and European competitions that completed beyond that date is not included in last season's figures. However, the ongoing effects of the virus will make an even bigger dent on club finances in 20/21 with stadia largely shut to supporters across the continent for the entire season so far and little sign of restrictions being eased. Even as the games have gone on behind closed doors, broadcasters have been compensated for a disruption to the original schedule and the lack of atmosphere produced by empty stadiums. Rebates for Europe's 'top five' leagues in England, Spain, Germany, France and Italy, and UEFA's Champions League and Europa League competitions already total almost 1.2 billion euros. "We usually release our money league and talk about the growth in revenue but of course football is not immune to the Covid-19 pandemic," said Tim Bridge of Deloitte's Sports Business Group. "The revenue that's been missed out on is driven by the lack of fans in the stadium, the lack of interaction on a matchday - fans spending in the club shop and buying food and drink - and there is an element that relates to revenue that broadcasters have either clawed back or deferred to next year." Spanish giants Barcelona maintained their position at the top of the revenue table despite their income falling 15 percent to 715 million euros. However, the Catalans are still mired in an economic crisis due to spiralling debts of 1.2 billion euros according to accounts released by the club on Monday. Real Madrid remain second, just 200,000 euros behind Barca's revenue. Bayern Munich leapfrogged Manchester United into third due to the latter missing out on Champions League football last season. In fourth, United are still the highest ranking English club among seven Premier League sides -- also featuring Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal and Everton -- in the top 20. Zenit St Petersburg are the only club outside the top five leagues among the list. The impact of the pandemic has seen some of the biggest clubs push through competition reform to guarantee bigger revenues. Speculation has mounted over a breakaway European Super League, but last week FIFA and UEFA warned any players that took part in such a competition would risk being banned from major international tournaments such as the World Cup.

Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report

World Cup organisers in Qatar reported the first coronavirus death of a worker involved in construction of 2022 tournament venues on Thursday.

A source close to the Qatari tournament organisers told AFP that 1,102 cases of COVID-19 had been confirmed among workers at tournament projects with 121 infections still active.

First reported by the newly relaunched Doha News, a site popular among expatriates in Qatar, the victim was an engineer in his fifties who had no underlying medical conditions.

Qatar has one of the highest per capita infection rates in the world with 3.3 percent of its 2.75 million population having tested positive.

Most have since recovered with only 17,591 active cases reported in the latest official statistics alongside 104 deaths.

"Sadly, on June 11, 2020, a 51-year-old specialist engineer employed by the contractor Conspel, tragically died after contracting COVID-19," the Qatari organisation responsible for organising the 2022 tournament said in a statement.

"He had worked on Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy projects since October 2019 and had no underlying health issues. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends."

His nationality was not disclosed.

The Qatari organisers reported the first infections among its workforce on April 15 with five cases across three stadium projects.

Work continues at 2022 sites but has slowed to allow virus containment measures including screening and social distancing to be observed with Qatari officials saying preparations are nevertheless more than 80 percent complete.

Organisers have removed all high-risk workers from projects on full pay, undertake temperature checks on workers twice daily, and imposed distancing rules in dining halls and staff transport to limit the virus' spread.&nbsp;

Construction at infrastructure to stage the tournament continued through the crisis even as Qatar halted non-essential retail and mosques, parks and restaurants closed.

Qatar has begun a cautious reopening programme with socially distanced worship permitted in some Mosques and non-essential retail permitted.

Cafes and restaurants are due to reopen subject to strict controls from July 1.

The timings of the competition, due to be held in November and December of 2022, remain unchanged by the coronavirus pandemic which has already forced the postponement of the European football championships and the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

Both will now take place in 2021. &nbsp;

World Cup organisers in Qatar reported the first coronavirus death of a worker involved in construction of 2022 tournament venues on Thursday. A source close to the Qatari tournament organisers told AFP that 1,102 cases of COVID-19 had been confirmed among workers at tournament projects with 121 infections still active.

World Cup organisers in Qatar reported the first coronavirus death of a worker involved in construction of 2022 tournament venues on Thursday. A source close to the Qatari tournament organisers told AFP that 1,102 cases of COVID-19 had been confirmed among workers at tournament projects with 121 infections still active. First reported by the newly relaunched Doha News, a site popular among expatriates in Qatar, the victim was an engineer in his fifties who had no underlying medical conditions. Qatar has one of the highest per capita infection rates in the world with 3.3 percent of its 2.75 million population having tested positive. Most have since recovered with only 17,591 active cases reported in the latest official statistics alongside 104 deaths. "Sadly, on June 11, 2020, a 51-year-old specialist engineer employed by the contractor Conspel, tragically died after contracting COVID-19," the Qatari organisation responsible for organising the 2022 tournament said in a statement. "He had worked on Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy projects since October 2019 and had no underlying health issues. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends." His nationality was not disclosed. The Qatari organisers reported the first infections among its workforce on April 15 with five cases across three stadium projects. Work continues at 2022 sites but has slowed to allow virus containment measures including screening and social distancing to be observed with Qatari officials saying preparations are nevertheless more than 80 percent complete. Organisers have removed all high-risk workers from projects on full pay, undertake temperature checks on workers twice daily, and imposed distancing rules in dining halls and staff transport to limit the virus' spread. Construction at infrastructure to stage the tournament continued through the crisis even as Qatar halted non-essential retail and mosques, parks and restaurants closed. Qatar has begun a cautious reopening programme with socially distanced worship permitted in some Mosques and non-essential retail permitted. Cafes and restaurants are due to reopen subject to strict controls from July 1. The timings of the competition, due to be held in November and December of 2022, remain unchanged by the coronavirus pandemic which has already forced the postponement of the European football championships and the Tokyo Olympics. Both will now take place in 2021.

Qatar confirms first virus death among World Cup workforce

The All India Football Federation on Friday decided to delay the start date of the domestic season till further notice in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a circular sent to all its members, the AIFF said it was done by following the guidelines issued by the world body FIFA as well as those by the Indian government.

"In view of the current situation of pandemic, we are unsure as to when things would go back to normal and sports can be played again in the country. Hence, AIFF has decided to postpone the start date of the upcoming season i.E. 2020-21 season and its first registration period till further notice," the AIFF said.

"The same shall be declared through a separate circular," it said in the circular titled 'COVID-19 Football Regulatory Issues in India'.

Last year, the Indian Super League began on October 20 while the I-League started on November 30.

The AIFF said Article 5.1 paragraph 1 of Annexe 3 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players provides that prior to a registration period commencing, associations may amend or modify the dates under "exceptional circumstances".

"The COVID-19 outbreak is clearly an exceptional circumstance, the AIFF said.

"In view of the above, FIFA has decided to allow all its MAsto amend season dates and/or registration periods, either within the FIFA Tansfer Matching System (TMS) or by otherwise notifying FIFA."

The AIFF said its Executive Committee on May 13 took a decision to conclude the current season (2019-20) on its original end date of May 31.

Regarding 'Expiring Agreements and New Agreements', the AIFF said: "There will not be any effects on an agreement expiring at the end of the current season as there is no change in the actual end date of the 2019-20 Season and all such agreements shall expire on their original end date.

"In case, an employment agreement is due to commence at the original start date of a new season, such commencement be delayed until the new start date of a new season.

"Notwithstanding the recommended amendment to agreement dates, any payment that contractually falls due prior to the new commencement date of an agreement should be delayed until the new start date of the 2020-21 Season.

The All India Football Federation on Friday decided to delay the start date of the domestic season till further notice in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a circular sent to all its members, the AIFF said it was done by following the guidelines issued by the world body FIFA as well as those by the Indian government.

The All India Football Federation on Friday decided to delay the start date of the domestic season till further notice in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a circular sent to all its members, the AIFF said it was done by following the guidelines issued by the world body FIFA as well as those by the Indian government. "In view of the current situation of pandemic, we are unsure as to when things would go back to normal and sports can be played again in the country. Hence, AIFF has decided to postpone the start date of the upcoming season i.E. 2020-21 season and its first registration period till further notice," the AIFF said. "The same shall be declared through a separate circular," it said in the circular titled 'COVID-19 Football Regulatory Issues in India'. Last year, the Indian Super League began on October 20 while the I-League started on November 30. The AIFF said Article 5.1 paragraph 1 of Annexe 3 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players provides that prior to a registration period commencing, associations may amend or modify the dates under "exceptional circumstances". "The COVID-19 outbreak is clearly an exceptional circumstance, the AIFF said. "In view of the above, FIFA has decided to allow all its MAsto amend season dates and/or registration periods, either within the FIFA Tansfer Matching System (TMS) or by otherwise notifying FIFA." The AIFF said its Executive Committee on May 13 took a decision to conclude the current season (2019-20) on its original end date of May 31. Regarding 'Expiring Agreements and New Agreements', the AIFF said: "There will not be any effects on an agreement expiring at the end of the current season as there is no change in the actual end date of the 2019-20 Season and all such agreements shall expire on their original end date. "In case, an employment agreement is due to commence at the original start date of a new season, such commencement be delayed until the new start date of a new season. "Notwithstanding the recommended amendment to agreement dates, any payment that contractually falls due prior to the new commencement date of an agreement should be delayed until the new start date of the 2020-21 Season.

AIFF decides to delay start of upcoming domestic season due to COVID-19 pandemic

For nearly three months football enthusiasts in Wuhan were left kicking their heels indoors as the coronavirus raged in the Chinese city at the epicentre of the outbreak.

But since the harsh lockdown on the city of 11 million people ended in early April amateur footballers have been gleefully ripping off their face masks and lacing up their boots again.

"It was a long time to be in lockdown so we had to do some exercise at home," said Wang Zijun, 42.

"I used to juggle the ball with my son at home and pass the ball to each other, and sometimes we went to the underground garage to do exercise."

Another player who finally enjoyed a run-out on a warm evening under floodlights said it was liberating to be able to kick a ball again with friends and team-mates.

They did so without their masks covering their faces, although some players kept them dangling around their necks.

"Before the lockdown was lifted everyone felt so oppressed," said the 45-year-old, who would only give the surname Wen.

"We need to do physical exercise. After the lockdown was lifted, we resumed training one time per week. I'm very happy."

Professional footballers were affected too.

Wang Shuang, a Wuhan native and star of China's women's team, who are pushing for a place at the Tokyo Olympics, resorted to kicking a ball against a wall on a roof.

Chinese Super League (CSL) team Wuhan Zall and third-tier Wuhan Three Towns have both returned to the central city after being forced to train elsewhere at the height of the outbreak.

The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but has been indefinitely postponed by the health alert, which has since eased in China.

For nearly three months football enthusiasts in Wuhan were left kicking their heels indoors as the coronavirus raged in the Chinese city at the epicentre of the outbreak.

For nearly three months football enthusiasts in Wuhan were left kicking their heels indoors as the coronavirus raged in the Chinese city at the epicentre of the outbreak. But since the harsh lockdown on the city of 11 million people ended in early April amateur footballers have been gleefully ripping off their face masks and lacing up their boots again. "It was a long time to be in lockdown so we had to do some exercise at home," said Wang Zijun, 42. "I used to juggle the ball with my son at home and pass the ball to each other, and sometimes we went to the underground garage to do exercise." Another player who finally enjoyed a run-out on a warm evening under floodlights said it was liberating to be able to kick a ball again with friends and team-mates. They did so without their masks covering their faces, although some players kept them dangling around their necks. "Before the lockdown was lifted everyone felt so oppressed," said the 45-year-old, who would only give the surname Wen. "We need to do physical exercise. After the lockdown was lifted, we resumed training one time per week. I'm very happy." Professional footballers were affected too. Wang Shuang, a Wuhan native and star of China's women's team, who are pushing for a place at the Tokyo Olympics, resorted to kicking a ball against a wall on a roof. Chinese Super League (CSL) team Wuhan Zall and third-tier Wuhan Three Towns have both returned to the central city after being forced to train elsewhere at the height of the outbreak. The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but has been indefinitely postponed by the health alert, which has since eased in China.

Football makes gleeful return to coronavirus-scarred Wuhan

The head of global players' union FIFPro has given his backing to footballers who do no want to return to training because of coronavirus fears and cautioned that it would be "inhumane and unacceptable" if they were to be punished for taking such a stance.

Jonas Baer-Hoffmann's comments come after Troy Deeney of English Premier League side Watford refused to restart training ahead of a possible resumption of the season because he does not want to put his young child, who has breathing difficulties, at risk of catching the virus.

Deeney has also cited fears his family could be in danger because of figures that show black and ethnic minorities in the UK -- which has the highest recorded death toll in Europe -- are more likely to become seriously ill with COVID-19.

Deeney is "a player who has very legitimate concerns and wants to protect his family", Baer-Hoffmann said in a conference call with reporters on Wednesday.

"If these players are being pressured or potentially facing disciplinary actions, we feel that is very much unacceptable.

"The idea that somebody may be punished in a pandemic for trying to protect his family's health is inhumane and unacceptable."

However, there is no suggestion that Watford are planning to take disciplinary action against Deeney.

Several players in England have voiced concerns about returning to training, even in small groups.

Watford were among the Premier League clubs affected by six positive tests for the virus out of a total of 748 tests conducted on Sunday and Monday.

England defender Danny Rose, on loan at Newcastle United from Tottenham Hotspur, said players were being treated like "lab rats" as the league attempts to get going again.

"No system can actually exclude the risk of infection, so it is a question about the probability by which you minimise that risk and many of the systems that we are seeing and reading about -- not particularly England -- still leave many, many gaps and many risks," Baer-Hoffmann said.

"If the players in England -- of which Danny Rose is a part -- would like stricter rules then that needs to be discussed."

Baer-Hoffmann admitted that plenty of players around the world were keen to get back playing despite the potential risks involved, but said FIFPro recommended that players undertake three to four weeks of training before beginning matches again due to the risk of injuries.

In England the Premier League has been suspended since March 13.

The financial consequences of not restarting would be potentially very serious for clubs, although players at the top level in England are in a better position than some of their counterparts around the globe.

Baer-Hoffmann highlighted the case of players in several Latin American countries, including Colombia and Uruguay, as well as in Botswana and Egypt, who are now relying on food packages from their local players' union "because they cannot even provide for their own basic needs and are being stranded in terms of income".

The head of global players' union FIFPro has given his backing to footballers who do no want to return to training because of coronavirus fears and cautioned that it would be "inhumane and unacceptable" if they were to be punished for taking such a stance.

The head of global players' union FIFPro has given his backing to footballers who do no want to return to training because of coronavirus fears and cautioned that it would be "inhumane and unacceptable" if they were to be punished for taking such a stance. Jonas Baer-Hoffmann's comments come after Troy Deeney of English Premier League side Watford refused to restart training ahead of a possible resumption of the season because he does not want to put his young child, who has breathing difficulties, at risk of catching the virus. Deeney has also cited fears his family could be in danger because of figures that show black and ethnic minorities in the UK -- which has the highest recorded death toll in Europe -- are more likely to become seriously ill with COVID-19. Deeney is "a player who has very legitimate concerns and wants to protect his family", Baer-Hoffmann said in a conference call with reporters on Wednesday. "If these players are being pressured or potentially facing disciplinary actions, we feel that is very much unacceptable. "The idea that somebody may be punished in a pandemic for trying to protect his family's health is inhumane and unacceptable." However, there is no suggestion that Watford are planning to take disciplinary action against Deeney. Several players in England have voiced concerns about returning to training, even in small groups. Watford were among the Premier League clubs affected by six positive tests for the virus out of a total of 748 tests conducted on Sunday and Monday. England defender Danny Rose, on loan at Newcastle United from Tottenham Hotspur, said players were being treated like "lab rats" as the league attempts to get going again. "No system can actually exclude the risk of infection, so it is a question about the probability by which you minimise that risk and many of the systems that we are seeing and reading about -- not particularly England -- still leave many, many gaps and many risks," Baer-Hoffmann said. "If the players in England -- of which Danny Rose is a part -- would like stricter rules then that needs to be discussed." Baer-Hoffmann admitted that plenty of players around the world were keen to get back playing despite the potential risks involved, but said FIFPro recommended that players undertake three to four weeks of training before beginning matches again due to the risk of injuries. In England the Premier League has been suspended since March 13. The financial consequences of not restarting would be potentially very serious for clubs, although players at the top level in England are in a better position than some of their counterparts around the globe. Baer-Hoffmann highlighted the case of players in several Latin American countries, including Colombia and Uruguay, as well as in Botswana and Egypt, who are now relying on food packages from their local players' union "because they cannot even provide for their own basic needs and are being stranded in terms of income".

'Inhumane' - FIFPro chief warns against punishing players who refuse to train over virus fears

Premier League players are set to be subjected to a strict testing regime if they are to return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to British media reports.

The BBC said Tuesday it had seen a copy of official protocols sent to all 20 Premier League clubs detailing the need for corner-flags, balls, cones, goalposts and even playing surfaces to be disinfected after each training session.

Other measures in the guidance include twice-weekly testing, and a daily pre-training questionnaire and temperature check.

Should a player test positive, with or without symptoms, they will be forced to self-isolate for seven days.

All players will have ro travel to a training ground individually and avoid public transport. Once there they will not be allowed to gather in communal areas and won't be fed on the premises.

Tackling and contact will reportedly be banned for the first phase of team training.

Meanwhile club medical staff must wear personal protection equipment when treating the players.

A meeting involving players, the Professional Footballers' Association and the British government over safety and health issues surrounding a possible restart of the game is set to take place on Wednesday.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor, said his members would be open to playing again provided "everything that can be done is being done" to assure their safety.&nbsp;

"We've got to try it, see if we can do it and see if we can return to some form of activity," Taylor told the Mirror.

"But it's also being as careful and having as many assurances as possible that it's achievable."

However, England internationals Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose are the two latest high-profile players to raise their concerns over a return to contact sport when the rest of society is being advised to follow social-distancing guidelines.

<h2>- 'Lives at risk' -</h2>

"The moment we do go back it just needs to be a moment where it's not just for footballing reasons, it's safe for not just us footballers but the whole medical staff, referees," Sterling told his YouTube channel.

Meanwhile Rose, on loan at Newcastle from Tottenham, told an Instagram live: "People's lives are at risk.

"Football shouldn't even be spoken about coming back until the numbers have dropped massively."

A further complication for Project Restart is where any matches would be played, with the clubs opposed to a proposal for a limited number of neutral venues to be used.

The UK's national football policing lead previously stated resuming matches on a home-and-away basis would "present challenges" to the emergency services.

But Mark Roberts said on Tuesday that police, government and football authorities were working together on a plan "which minimises any risks to public safety and unnecessary pressure on public services, but facilitates a sensible restart to the season."

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has come out against the idea of playing matches in the capital at this stage, with the city having been particularly badly hit by the pandemic.

Five of the 20 Premier League sides are based in London.

"With the country still in the grips of this crisis, and hundreds of people dying every day, he believes that it is too early to be discussing the resumption of the Premier League and top-flight sport in the capital," Khan's spokesperson told the Evening Standard.

Premier League clubs face having to pay a huge refund to broadcasters even if they manage to complete the virus-disrupted season behind closed doors.

Broadcasters would be reimbursed for matches not being played as scheduled and the lack of atmosphere in empty stadiums is also a factor.

The BBC reported the bill could be as high as £340 million ($420 million) and would surge to £760 million if the season cannot be completed.&nbsp;

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has previously warned of a £1 billion loss once the absence of gate receipts is taken into account.

New government guidelines have paved the way for elite sport to return behind closed doors in England from June 1.

Britain has been one of the worst hit by the global pandemic, with the UK government officially recording more than 32,000 deaths from COVID-19.

Premier League players are set to be subjected to a strict testing regime if they are to return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to British media reports.

Premier League players are set to be subjected to a strict testing regime if they are to return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to British media reports. The BBC said Tuesday it had seen a copy of official protocols sent to all 20 Premier League clubs detailing the need for corner-flags, balls, cones, goalposts and even playing surfaces to be disinfected after each training session. Other measures in the guidance include twice-weekly testing, and a daily pre-training questionnaire and temperature check. Should a player test positive, with or without symptoms, they will be forced to self-isolate for seven days. All players will have ro travel to a training ground individually and avoid public transport. Once there they will not be allowed to gather in communal areas and won't be fed on the premises. Tackling and contact will reportedly be banned for the first phase of team training. Meanwhile club medical staff must wear personal protection equipment when treating the players. A meeting involving players, the Professional Footballers' Association and the British government over safety and health issues surrounding a possible restart of the game is set to take place on Wednesday. PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor, said his members would be open to playing again provided "everything that can be done is being done" to assure their safety. "We've got to try it, see if we can do it and see if we can return to some form of activity," Taylor told the Mirror. "But it's also being as careful and having as many assurances as possible that it's achievable." However, England internationals Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose are the two latest high-profile players to raise their concerns over a return to contact sport when the rest of society is being advised to follow social-distancing guidelines. - 'Lives at risk' - "The moment we do go back it just needs to be a moment where it's not just for footballing reasons, it's safe for not just us footballers but the whole medical staff, referees," Sterling told his YouTube channel. Meanwhile Rose, on loan at Newcastle from Tottenham, told an Instagram live: "People's lives are at risk. "Football shouldn't even be spoken about coming back until the numbers have dropped massively." A further complication for Project Restart is where any matches would be played, with the clubs opposed to a proposal for a limited number of neutral venues to be used. The UK's national football policing lead previously stated resuming matches on a home-and-away basis would "present challenges" to the emergency services. But Mark Roberts said on Tuesday that police, government and football authorities were working together on a plan "which minimises any risks to public safety and unnecessary pressure on public services, but facilitates a sensible restart to the season." London Mayor Sadiq Khan has come out against the idea of playing matches in the capital at this stage, with the city having been particularly badly hit by the pandemic. Five of the 20 Premier League sides are based in London. "With the country still in the grips of this crisis, and hundreds of people dying every day, he believes that it is too early to be discussing the resumption of the Premier League and top-flight sport in the capital," Khan's spokesperson told the Evening Standard. Premier League clubs face having to pay a huge refund to broadcasters even if they manage to complete the virus-disrupted season behind closed doors. Broadcasters would be reimbursed for matches not being played as scheduled and the lack of atmosphere in empty stadiums is also a factor. The BBC reported the bill could be as high as £340 million ($420 million) and would surge to £760 million if the season cannot be completed. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has previously warned of a £1 billion loss once the absence of gate receipts is taken into account. New government guidelines have paved the way for elite sport to return behind closed doors in England from June 1. Britain has been one of the worst hit by the global pandemic, with the UK government officially recording more than 32,000 deaths from COVID-19.

Premier League players face strict new training protocols

Germany's Bundesliga will be the first major football league in Europe to return to action next week after being suspended in March as the coronavirus spread across the continent.

The pandemic has claimed almost 150,000 lives in Europe but some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders.

AFP Sport looks at the state of play in Europe's top leagues:

<h2>GERMANY</h2>

The German league on Wednesday announced that the Bundesliga will restart on May 15.

Chancellor Angela Merkel and state leaders earlier gave the Bundesliga the green light to restart behind closed doors under a plan that includes regular testing of players.

Permission was granted on condition that strict guidelines are followed -- with a hygiene officer appointed to each team -- to prevent contagion of the virus.

So far, clubs in the top two divisions have returned 10 positive results for coronavirus from 1,724 tests since training resumed. Three of the cases were from Cologne and two from Borussia Moenchengladbach.

<h2>ENGLAND</h2>

Premier League clubs reaffirmed their commitment last week to finish the season subject to restrictions being lifted in Britain, although players including Manchester City's Sergio Aguero have expressed reservations about the plan.

The English top flight faces an estimated loss of around £1 billion ($1.25 billion) if the season cannot be completed. Plans to stage the 92 remaining games behind closed doors, reportedly at up to 10 neutral venues, would mitigate the financial damage.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to outline details of how Britain will exit lockdown on Sunday before the next Premier League meeting to discuss the restart plan takes place a day later.

Premier League chiefs have targeted a return to action in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds for players to use on an individual basis.

A large supply of privately sourced tests would be needed for players, coaches and backroom staff.

However, relegation-threatened clubs are reported to be against the neutral venue plan, with some said to be willing to vote against the Premier League's "Project Restart".

<h2>SPAIN</h2>

La Liga players have started returning to their clubs to undergo coronavirus tests as teams plan to return to restricted training ahead of the proposed resumption of the season next month.

The first of a four-phase de-escalation programme announced by the Spanish government last week will allow players to initially train alone, with a maximum of six players permitted on the pitch.

La Liga's programme will then permit training in small groups before a return to larger team sessions.

In the fourth and final phase, in early June, the government has said outside events can go ahead when attended by fewer than 400 people.&nbsp;

La Liga is proposing to complete its season behind closed doors, with games re-starting in mid-June.&nbsp;

League president Javier Tebas has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros.

<h2>ITALY</h2>

Players at a number of Italian clubs, including defending champions Juventus, are back training individually after receiving the green light from the country's interior ministry.

Despite players being allowed to return to club facilities two weeks ahead of schedule and undergoing health checks, sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned training in groups must wait until May 18.

Cristiano Ronaldo will have to observe a 14-day quarantine period after returning to Italy following two months of confinement in Portugal.

It remains uncertain whether matches can restart, with Spadafora saying "it is impossible to set a certain date".&nbsp;

Officially, all 20 Serie A teams have unanimously backed a return to competition, despite reservations from clubs such as Brescia and Torino, in the north of Italy, which was particularly hard-hit by the pandemic.

A meeting is scheduled Thursday between the Italian Football Federation and members of the government's Technical Scientific Committee to discuss the medical protocol for the resumption of group training.

<h2>FRANCE</h2>

Paris Saint-Germain were named Ligue 1 champions after France's football league declared the coronavirus-hit season over on April 30.

The announcement came after Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said that "professional sports leagues, notably football, cannot restart" because of the pandemic.

"There is no ambiguity about this declaration. We needed to make a final decision about this season. We acknowledge that the 2019-20 season is over," said LFP president Nathalie Boy de la Tour.

The LFP arranged a final table on the basis of average points per game. Ten rounds of matches remained when the campaign was halted.

Toulouse and Amiens, the bottom two, were condemned to relegation, with Lorient, as champions, and Lens coming up from Ligue 2. The usual promotion and relegation play-offs, meanwhile, have been ditched.

Germany's Bundesliga will be the first major football league in Europe to return to action next week after being suspended in March as the coronavirus spread across the continent.

Germany's Bundesliga will be the first major football league in Europe to return to action next week after being suspended in March as the coronavirus spread across the continent. The pandemic has claimed almost 150,000 lives in Europe but some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders. AFP Sport looks at the state of play in Europe's top leagues: GERMANY The German league on Wednesday announced that the Bundesliga will restart on May 15. Chancellor Angela Merkel and state leaders earlier gave the Bundesliga the green light to restart behind closed doors under a plan that includes regular testing of players. Permission was granted on condition that strict guidelines are followed -- with a hygiene officer appointed to each team -- to prevent contagion of the virus. So far, clubs in the top two divisions have returned 10 positive results for coronavirus from 1,724 tests since training resumed. Three of the cases were from Cologne and two from Borussia Moenchengladbach. ENGLAND Premier League clubs reaffirmed their commitment last week to finish the season subject to restrictions being lifted in Britain, although players including Manchester City's Sergio Aguero have expressed reservations about the plan. The English top flight faces an estimated loss of around £1 billion ($1.25 billion) if the season cannot be completed. Plans to stage the 92 remaining games behind closed doors, reportedly at up to 10 neutral venues, would mitigate the financial damage. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to outline details of how Britain will exit lockdown on Sunday before the next Premier League meeting to discuss the restart plan takes place a day later. Premier League chiefs have targeted a return to action in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds for players to use on an individual basis. A large supply of privately sourced tests would be needed for players, coaches and backroom staff. However, relegation-threatened clubs are reported to be against the neutral venue plan, with some said to be willing to vote against the Premier League's "Project Restart". SPAIN La Liga players have started returning to their clubs to undergo coronavirus tests as teams plan to return to restricted training ahead of the proposed resumption of the season next month. The first of a four-phase de-escalation programme announced by the Spanish government last week will allow players to initially train alone, with a maximum of six players permitted on the pitch. La Liga's programme will then permit training in small groups before a return to larger team sessions. In the fourth and final phase, in early June, the government has said outside events can go ahead when attended by fewer than 400 people. La Liga is proposing to complete its season behind closed doors, with games re-starting in mid-June. League president Javier Tebas has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros. ITALY Players at a number of Italian clubs, including defending champions Juventus, are back training individually after receiving the green light from the country's interior ministry. Despite players being allowed to return to club facilities two weeks ahead of schedule and undergoing health checks, sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned training in groups must wait until May 18. Cristiano Ronaldo will have to observe a 14-day quarantine period after returning to Italy following two months of confinement in Portugal. It remains uncertain whether matches can restart, with Spadafora saying "it is impossible to set a certain date". Officially, all 20 Serie A teams have unanimously backed a return to competition, despite reservations from clubs such as Brescia and Torino, in the north of Italy, which was particularly hard-hit by the pandemic. A meeting is scheduled Thursday between the Italian Football Federation and members of the government's Technical Scientific Committee to discuss the medical protocol for the resumption of group training. FRANCE Paris Saint-Germain were named Ligue 1 champions after France's football league declared the coronavirus-hit season over on April 30. The announcement came after Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said that "professional sports leagues, notably football, cannot restart" because of the pandemic. "There is no ambiguity about this declaration. We needed to make a final decision about this season. We acknowledge that the 2019-20 season is over," said LFP president Nathalie Boy de la Tour. The LFP arranged a final table on the basis of average points per game. Ten rounds of matches remained when the campaign was halted. Toulouse and Amiens, the bottom two, were condemned to relegation, with Lorient, as champions, and Lens coming up from Ligue 2. The usual promotion and relegation play-offs, meanwhile, have been ditched.

League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro wants football competitions in the country resume services soon despite the high number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Bolsonaro argued that players have "small chance of dying" from coronavirus due to their top physical fitness.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro, while likening the COVID-19 pandemic to “a little flu” has downplayed the risk brought by the coronavirus. Brazilian football leagues were suspended on March 15, whereas the Brazilian championship was scheduled to kick-start in the month of May. However, the commencement of the Brazilian championship looks unlikely given that the country has become a COVID-19 hotspot with more than 5,900 deaths. Medical experts and doctors are of the view that the pandemic is expected to peak.

Bolsonaro said that lots of people want football to return due to unemployment within the clubs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2022-ambassador-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-296044" hreflang="en">World Cup 2022 ambassador tests positive for coronavirus</a>

“There is a lot of people in soccer that are favourable to a return because unemployment is knocking on clubs’ doors too,” Bolsonaro said in an interview with Radio Guaiba. “Footballers, if infected with the virus, have a small chance of dying. That’s because of their physical state because they are athletes.”

The Brazilian president further said that the new health minister will issue advisory for matches to return behind closed doors but admitted that players might be reluctant to take to the pitch. Bolsonaro said that the Brazilian government is ready to help in the resumption of live football in the country.&nbsp;

“The decision to restart soccer is not mine, but we can help,” Bolsonaro said, adding he has spoken with Gremio coach Renato Portaluppi about the issue and was told that players are still worried about the virus.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-proposes-june-8-restart-with-clubs-to-resume-full-training-from-mid-may-295846" hreflang="en">Premier League proposes June 8 restart with clubs to resume full training from mid-May</a>

Brazil’s arch-rivals and neighbours, Argentina has already cancelled the remainder of 2019-20 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas France decided to conclude the season mid-way while declaring Paris Saint-Germain as winners of Ligue 1. The Dutch FA also cancelled the Eridiviese with no champions, promotion or relegation in place.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Brazil’s football confederation on Tuesday, in a statement, said that competitions should return “whenever it is possible, with safety and health care assurances for all those involved”.

On Thursday, the Brazil football confederation had said Bolsonaro’s health ministry suggestions of the measures need to be taken before resumption.

Whereas, a director at Sao Paulo FC, 1994 World Cup winner, Rai said that his club is against the resumption of play amid COVID-19 pandemic while calling for Bolsonaro’s resignation due to his “irresponsible” management during the crisis.&nbsp;

“We want to return in the proper time, in accord with recommendations, and gradually,” Raí told GloboEsporte. 
&nbsp;

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro wants football competitions in the country resume services soon despite the high number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Bolsonaro argued that players have "small chance of dying" from coronavirus due to their top physical fitness.

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro wants football competitions in the country resume services soon despite the high number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Bolsonaro argued that players have "small chance of dying" from coronavirus due to their top physical fitness. Bolsonaro, while likening the COVID-19 pandemic to “a little flu” has downplayed the risk brought by the coronavirus. Brazilian football leagues were suspended on March 15, whereas the Brazilian championship was scheduled to kick-start in the month of May. However, the commencement of the Brazilian championship looks unlikely given that the country has become a COVID-19 hotspot with more than 5,900 deaths. Medical experts and doctors are of the view that the pandemic is expected to peak. Bolsonaro said that lots of people want football to return due to unemployment within the clubs. ALSO READ: World Cup 2022 ambassador tests positive for coronavirus “There is a lot of people in soccer that are favourable to a return because unemployment is knocking on clubs’ doors too,” Bolsonaro said in an interview with Radio Guaiba. “Footballers, if infected with the virus, have a small chance of dying. That’s because of their physical state because they are athletes.” The Brazilian president further said that the new health minister will issue advisory for matches to return behind closed doors but admitted that players might be reluctant to take to the pitch. Bolsonaro said that the Brazilian government is ready to help in the resumption of live football in the country. “The decision to restart soccer is not mine, but we can help,” Bolsonaro said, adding he has spoken with Gremio coach Renato Portaluppi about the issue and was told that players are still worried about the virus. ALSO READ: Premier League proposes June 8 restart with clubs to resume full training from mid-May Brazil’s arch-rivals and neighbours, Argentina has already cancelled the remainder of 2019-20 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas France decided to conclude the season mid-way while declaring Paris Saint-Germain as winners of Ligue 1. The Dutch FA also cancelled the Eridiviese with no champions, promotion or relegation in place. Furthermore, Brazil’s football confederation on Tuesday, in a statement, said that competitions should return “whenever it is possible, with safety and health care assurances for all those involved”. On Thursday, the Brazil football confederation had said Bolsonaro’s health ministry suggestions of the measures need to be taken before resumption. Whereas, a director at Sao Paulo FC, 1994 World Cup winner, Rai said that his club is against the resumption of play amid COVID-19 pandemic while calling for Bolsonaro’s resignation due to his “irresponsible” management during the crisis. “We want to return in the proper time, in accord with recommendations, and gradually,” Raí told GloboEsporte.

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro wants football to return, says players have ‘small chance of dying’ from COVID-19

Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent.

Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders.

AFP Sport looks at what we know about the plans for Europe's top leagues:

<h2>ENGLAND</h2>

Premier League chiefs are targeting a return in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds this week as they work on "Project Restart".

The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff.

Teams could reportedly return to full training mid-May and resume matches on June 8, with the plans to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday.

The clubs remain committed to ending the 2019-20 campaign and there are compelling financial and legal reasons to play the remaining 92 games. A failure to finish the season is forecast to cost Premier League clubs an estimated £1 billion ($1.2 billion).

Matches would almost certainly be played behind closed doors and clubs have reportedly been told that only approved stadiums could be used, with higher health certification than normal.

However, the Professional Footballers' Association have raised the issue of players not wanting to be put at risk by returning too soon.

<h2>SPAIN</h2>

La Liga players will be able to restart basic training from May 4, based on the Spanish government's plans announced Tuesday to transition out of a strict virus lockdown.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the decision was the first move in lifting lockdown measures which will be done in four stages across two months.

Only in later stages of the process will full training sessions be able to take place.&nbsp;

League president Javier Tebas is hopeful the league can begin again in mid-June. He has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros.

"I do not understand why there would more danger in playing football behind closed doors, with all precautionary measures" than any other line of work, Tebas said.

"In Spain, football is an important economic driver that we need to reactivate like many others. We continue to focus on this reactivation, in a responsible manner and adhering to health recommendations, as soon as possible."

<h2>ITALY</h2>

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora has warned Serie A could be called off, with the league facing "an increasingly narrow path" for its resumption.

The government has allowed individual athletes to resume training next week but team sports, including football, must wait until at least May 18. The move was slammed by Italy's footballers' union "as discriminatory and even illogical".

All 20 top-flight clubs have voted unanimously to complete the league season, but the final decision rests with the government.

An emergency meeting of the clubs will be held on Friday. Spadafora suggested "the majority could ask us to suspend this season and prepare for the next championship as best possible".

Italian football chiefs have already pushed back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2. The goal of a return to competition in early June has become impracticable, shifting the date towards June 10-14.

Another solution being touted would be a play-off to allocate the Scudetto and qualifying places for European competition and determine relegation.

<h2>GERMANY</h2>

The Bundesliga could resume by "the middle or end of May" according to the country's sports ministers, although it still requires the green light from Angela Merkel's government.

Chancellor Merkel will meet state leaders in Berlin on Thursday, when it is hoped the league will be granted permission to resume play from May 16.

Clubs returned to training at the start of the month while adhering to social distancing guidelines and games would be played behind closed doors, with large-scale public events banned in Germany until August 31.

Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke warned last weekend that "the entire Bundesliga will go down" unless the league restarts.

Germany's top clubs are desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 in order to claim an instalment of television money worth 300 million euros ($325 million).

A primary sticking point is the testing of players, which critics claim will be an extra burden on Germany's health system.

<h2>FRANCE</h2>

The Ligue 1 season appears to be over after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said professional football cannot resume until September.

The French league will meet on Thursday "to analyse the sporting and economic consequences" of the government announcement.&nbsp;

Assuming no more matches take place, the league must decide how to end the season. It is understood that France will not follow the lead of the Netherlands, who decided to void their season with no champion, relegation or promotion.

Final placings could be attributed based on the standings as they are, or using an average of points per game.

Sports daily L'Equipe calculates that the top two divisions could now miss out on 243 million euros ($264 million) from broadcasters Canal Plus and beIN Sports, plus 35 million euros for international rights. That is on top of lost gate receipts and sponsorship.

<h2>ELSEWHERE</h2>

The Dutch FA put an end to the season last week, as the Eredivisie became the first top European league called off due to the health crisis. No title will be awarded and there will be no relegation or promotion.

The Belgian Pro League is expected to take a similar decision next week, confirming the season over with Club Brugge in line to be declared champions with 11 games unplayed.&nbsp;

The fate of the Scottish Premiership is up in the air. A controversial vote ended the seasons in the lower three divisions but there are hopes the top flight could restart behind closed doors if given government approval.

Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent. Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders.

Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent. Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders. AFP Sport looks at what we know about the plans for Europe's top leagues: ENGLAND Premier League chiefs are targeting a return in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds this week as they work on "Project Restart". The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff. Teams could reportedly return to full training mid-May and resume matches on June 8, with the plans to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday. The clubs remain committed to ending the 2019-20 campaign and there are compelling financial and legal reasons to play the remaining 92 games. A failure to finish the season is forecast to cost Premier League clubs an estimated £1 billion ($1.2 billion). Matches would almost certainly be played behind closed doors and clubs have reportedly been told that only approved stadiums could be used, with higher health certification than normal. However, the Professional Footballers' Association have raised the issue of players not wanting to be put at risk by returning too soon. SPAIN La Liga players will be able to restart basic training from May 4, based on the Spanish government's plans announced Tuesday to transition out of a strict virus lockdown. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the decision was the first move in lifting lockdown measures which will be done in four stages across two months. Only in later stages of the process will full training sessions be able to take place. League president Javier Tebas is hopeful the league can begin again in mid-June. He has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros. "I do not understand why there would more danger in playing football behind closed doors, with all precautionary measures" than any other line of work, Tebas said. "In Spain, football is an important economic driver that we need to reactivate like many others. We continue to focus on this reactivation, in a responsible manner and adhering to health recommendations, as soon as possible." ITALY Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora has warned Serie A could be called off, with the league facing "an increasingly narrow path" for its resumption. The government has allowed individual athletes to resume training next week but team sports, including football, must wait until at least May 18. The move was slammed by Italy's footballers' union "as discriminatory and even illogical". All 20 top-flight clubs have voted unanimously to complete the league season, but the final decision rests with the government. An emergency meeting of the clubs will be held on Friday. Spadafora suggested "the majority could ask us to suspend this season and prepare for the next championship as best possible". Italian football chiefs have already pushed back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2. The goal of a return to competition in early June has become impracticable, shifting the date towards June 10-14. Another solution being touted would be a play-off to allocate the Scudetto and qualifying places for European competition and determine relegation. GERMANY The Bundesliga could resume by "the middle or end of May" according to the country's sports ministers, although it still requires the green light from Angela Merkel's government. Chancellor Merkel will meet state leaders in Berlin on Thursday, when it is hoped the league will be granted permission to resume play from May 16. Clubs returned to training at the start of the month while adhering to social distancing guidelines and games would be played behind closed doors, with large-scale public events banned in Germany until August 31. Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke warned last weekend that "the entire Bundesliga will go down" unless the league restarts. Germany's top clubs are desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 in order to claim an instalment of television money worth 300 million euros ($325 million). A primary sticking point is the testing of players, which critics claim will be an extra burden on Germany's health system. FRANCE The Ligue 1 season appears to be over after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said professional football cannot resume until September. The French league will meet on Thursday "to analyse the sporting and economic consequences" of the government announcement. Assuming no more matches take place, the league must decide how to end the season. It is understood that France will not follow the lead of the Netherlands, who decided to void their season with no champion, relegation or promotion. Final placings could be attributed based on the standings as they are, or using an average of points per game. Sports daily L'Equipe calculates that the top two divisions could now miss out on 243 million euros ($264 million) from broadcasters Canal Plus and beIN Sports, plus 35 million euros for international rights. That is on top of lost gate receipts and sponsorship. ELSEWHERE The Dutch FA put an end to the season last week, as the Eredivisie became the first top European league called off due to the health crisis. No title will be awarded and there will be no relegation or promotion. The Belgian Pro League is expected to take a similar decision next week, confirming the season over with Club Brugge in line to be declared champions with 11 games unplayed. The fate of the Scottish Premiership is up in the air. A controversial vote ended the seasons in the lower three divisions but there are hopes the top flight could restart behind closed doors if given government approval.

Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic. On March 9, Italy had suspended Serie A as a part of strict lockdown phase to curb the spread of COVID-19 that has seen over 200,000 confirmed cases with more than 27,000 deaths in the country, the second-highest tally in the entire world after the United States.&nbsp;

Spadafora said that if he was one of the presidents of Serie A clubs then he would be focusing on the next season rather than spending time thinking about the halted campaign.

"I see an increasingly narrow path for the resumption of the Serie A... If I were one of the presidents (of the clubs) I would focus on the next season," Spadafora told an Italian broadcaster.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-many-have-to-die-gary-neville-voices-fears-over-premier-league-plans-295599" hreflang="en">'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans</a>

The Netherlands and France are two European countries to have ended their football campaigns due to the coronavirus pandemic, whereas, the Premier League, German Bundesliga and Serie A are among those who want to finish the 2019/20 season.&nbsp;

"These decisions (in France and in the Netherlands) could push Italy to follow this line, which would become a European line," Spadafora said while adding that he thought a majority of Serie A clubs may soon ask to cancel the league.&nbsp;

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had earlier announced that lockdown will be eased from May 4 with sports team given the allowance to train from May 18.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mauricio-pochettino-newcastle-uniteds-top-target-to-take-over-managerial-duties-295589" hreflang="en">Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties</a>

While the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has chalked out a medical protocol for training, Spadafora has clarified that government’s scientific experts didn't deem it sufficient.&nbsp;

"If the championship should ever resume, it will certainly be behind closed doors," Spadafora said.

As of now, there are 12 more rounds of matches to be played in Serie A with a number of games from incompleted rounds. As things stand, Juventus are one point clear of Lazio at the top of the table.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic. On March 9, Italy had suspended Serie A as a part of strict lockdown phase to curb the spread of COVID-19 that has seen over 200,000 confirmed cases with more than 27,000 deaths in the country, the second-highest tally in the entire world after the United States. Spadafora said that if he was one of the presidents of Serie A clubs then he would be focusing on the next season rather than spending time thinking about the halted campaign. "I see an increasingly narrow path for the resumption of the Serie A... If I were one of the presidents (of the clubs) I would focus on the next season," Spadafora told an Italian broadcaster. ALSO READ: 'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans The Netherlands and France are two European countries to have ended their football campaigns due to the coronavirus pandemic, whereas, the Premier League, German Bundesliga and Serie A are among those who want to finish the 2019/20 season. "These decisions (in France and in the Netherlands) could push Italy to follow this line, which would become a European line," Spadafora said while adding that he thought a majority of Serie A clubs may soon ask to cancel the league. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had earlier announced that lockdown will be eased from May 4 with sports team given the allowance to train from May 18. ALSO READ: Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties While the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has chalked out a medical protocol for training, Spadafora has clarified that government’s scientific experts didn't deem it sufficient. "If the championship should ever resume, it will certainly be behind closed doors," Spadafora said. As of now, there are 12 more rounds of matches to be played in Serie A with a number of games from incompleted rounds. As things stand, Juventus are one point clear of Lazio at the top of the table.

Serie A could follow Ligue 1, Eredivisie by cancelling 2019-20 season: Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy.

"The Lega Serie A Council that met today unanimously confirmed its intention to complete the 2019-2020 season, if the government allows it to take place," Italy's top flight said in a statement

It added that any resumption will take place "in accordance with regulations laid out by FIFA and UEFA" and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), and "in compliance with medical protocols to protect the players".

Brescia, Torino, Sampdoria, Udinese, SPAL, Genoa and Sardinian outfit Cagliari do not want to play because of the "incalculable risk" of restarting, according to reports in Italy.

Six of those clubs are situated in the north of Italy which has been hardest hit by a virus which has killed over 24,000 people.

No football has been played in Italy since March 9 with the current lockdown measures in the country extended to May 3.

Sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora will meet with FIGC officials midweek, but he warned he was not sure that Serie A teams can even resume training.

"I am not giving any assurances for the start of the championship or training on May 4, if the conditions for the country do not exist beforehand," Spadafora told Tg2 Post.

"Sport is not just football and it is not only Serie A," he added.

"I will evaluate very carefully, but this must not create the illusion that resuming training means resuming the championship."

Meanwhile, Torino's team doctor Rodolfo Tavana, who held the position of the Serie A's representative on the FIGC's medical commission,&nbsp;resigned on Monday.

Tavana was appointed to the commission to help formulate the protocol for the resumption of football.

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy.

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy. "The Lega Serie A Council that met today unanimously confirmed its intention to complete the 2019-2020 season, if the government allows it to take place," Italy's top flight said in a statement It added that any resumption will take place "in accordance with regulations laid out by FIFA and UEFA" and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), and "in compliance with medical protocols to protect the players". Brescia, Torino, Sampdoria, Udinese, SPAL, Genoa and Sardinian outfit Cagliari do not want to play because of the "incalculable risk" of restarting, according to reports in Italy. Six of those clubs are situated in the north of Italy which has been hardest hit by a virus which has killed over 24,000 people. No football has been played in Italy since March 9 with the current lockdown measures in the country extended to May 3. Sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora will meet with FIGC officials midweek, but he warned he was not sure that Serie A teams can even resume training. "I am not giving any assurances for the start of the championship or training on May 4, if the conditions for the country do not exist beforehand," Spadafora told Tg2 Post. "Sport is not just football and it is not only Serie A," he added. "I will evaluate very carefully, but this must not create the illusion that resuming training means resuming the championship." Meanwhile, Torino's team doctor Rodolfo Tavana, who held the position of the Serie A's representative on the FIGC's medical commission, resigned on Monday. Tavana was appointed to the commission to help formulate the protocol for the resumption of football.

Serie A commits to finishing season after virus lockdown

The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, as former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli reckons players will face an insurance issue if they contract coronavirus after the resumption of play.&nbsp;

Premier League is determined to finish the halted 2019/20 season, however, players can raise some valid questions in relation to their safety and well-being given they don’t have COVID-19 clause in their current insurances.&nbsp;

“Sorry if I’m being dramatic but let’s assume the Premier League starts and suddenly (a player) catches the virus and then dies or gets severe lung damage and he can’t play football anymore, what’s going to happen?” Comolli said a leading British news portal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/resumption-of-champions-league-in-august-postponement-of-202021-ucl-season-likely-reports-293535" hreflang="en">Resumption of Champions League in August; postponement of 2020/21 UCL season likely: Reports</a>

“Is the player going to say my contract ended on June 30, you forced me to play?”

Comolli further said that the transfer window could be extremely different with drop-in players’ price inevitable. He reckons there will be more loan and swap deals after the summer transfer window opens.

“An agent was saying the other day only three clubs in the Premier League will be able to spend money. If that’s the case I think the transfer window will be very different.

“We might see swaps, we might see loans and we are going to a see a massive decrease in transfer fees and activity – at least transfers involving money.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-unlikely-to-take-call-on-t20-world-cup-before-august-293526" hreflang="en">ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August</a>

“The more this crisis goes on and the clubs are in a difficult situation financially, the first thing that will be impacted will be player remuneration and the second thing will be transfer fees.

“I think it’ll be very difficult not to finish the season for a lot of different reasons, one is financial but as an industry football has a duty to entertain.

Comolli is of the view that the entire year of 2020 could be played behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic while adding that resumption of live football would be something positive for everyone.

“Now it is not the right thing to talk about it but we have a duty to fans, they want something else at night or during the day to think about, other than the virus and the issues. I think it’d be something positive.

“Personally I wouldn’t be surprised if we couldn’t play with any fans until the end of 2020.” 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic.

The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, as former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli reckons players will face an insurance issue if they contract coronavirus after the resumption of play. Premier League is determined to finish the halted 2019/20 season, however, players can raise some valid questions in relation to their safety and well-being given they don’t have COVID-19 clause in their current insurances. “Sorry if I’m being dramatic but let’s assume the Premier League starts and suddenly (a player) catches the virus and then dies or gets severe lung damage and he can’t play football anymore, what’s going to happen?” Comolli said a leading British news portal. ALSO READ: Resumption of Champions League in August; postponement of 2020/21 UCL season likely: Reports “Is the player going to say my contract ended on June 30, you forced me to play?” Comolli further said that the transfer window could be extremely different with drop-in players’ price inevitable. He reckons there will be more loan and swap deals after the summer transfer window opens. “An agent was saying the other day only three clubs in the Premier League will be able to spend money. If that’s the case I think the transfer window will be very different. “We might see swaps, we might see loans and we are going to a see a massive decrease in transfer fees and activity – at least transfers involving money. ALSO READ: ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August “The more this crisis goes on and the clubs are in a difficult situation financially, the first thing that will be impacted will be player remuneration and the second thing will be transfer fees. “I think it’ll be very difficult not to finish the season for a lot of different reasons, one is financial but as an industry football has a duty to entertain. Comolli is of the view that the entire year of 2020 could be played behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic while adding that resumption of live football would be something positive for everyone. “Now it is not the right thing to talk about it but we have a duty to fans, they want something else at night or during the day to think about, other than the virus and the issues. I think it’d be something positive. “Personally I wouldn’t be surprised if we couldn’t play with any fans until the end of 2020.”

'What if player catches virus?' - Insurance issues likely to be stumbling block before resumption of Premier League

Football fans and concert-goers could be barred from seeing their favourite teams and bands play live in Germany for 18 months due to the coronavirus, according to a science expert.

Keeping Germany's stadiums and music venues closed until well into 2021 "would certainly be very wise" according to Gerald Haug, president of the Leopoldina Academy of Sciences, which advises Angela Merkel's government on measures to combat the virus.

In an interview aired by broadcaster ARD on Monday, Haug added that "as to whether it will last a year and a half, we have to wait and see - there are also more optimistic assessments of the situation.

"But it will certainly last several months more, it could go up to a year and a half."

The German Football League (DFL) suspended all Bundesliga matches on March 13 until at least April 30.

A decision on whether football can resume in early May, most likely in empty stadiums with fans locked out, has been pushed back a week until April 23, the DFL announced Tuesday.

The DFL would need the go-ahead from the health authorities for leagues to resume.

Having been closed since mid-March, concert halls and sports venues across Germany remain shut until further notice.

The Leopoldina Academy has advocated a "step-by-step" return to normal conditions if the figures for new contaminations "stabilise at a low level" and if "hygiene measures are maintained".

Just under 3,000 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Football fans and concert-goers could be barred from seeing their favourite teams and bands play live in Germany for 18 months due to the coronavirus, according to a science expert.

Football fans and concert-goers could be barred from seeing their favourite teams and bands play live in Germany for 18 months due to the coronavirus, according to a science expert. Keeping Germany's stadiums and music venues closed until well into 2021 "would certainly be very wise" according to Gerald Haug, president of the Leopoldina Academy of Sciences, which advises Angela Merkel's government on measures to combat the virus. In an interview aired by broadcaster ARD on Monday, Haug added that "as to whether it will last a year and a half, we have to wait and see - there are also more optimistic assessments of the situation. "But it will certainly last several months more, it could go up to a year and a half." The German Football League (DFL) suspended all Bundesliga matches on March 13 until at least April 30. A decision on whether football can resume in early May, most likely in empty stadiums with fans locked out, has been pushed back a week until April 23, the DFL announced Tuesday. The DFL would need the go-ahead from the health authorities for leagues to resume. Having been closed since mid-March, concert halls and sports venues across Germany remain shut until further notice. The Leopoldina Academy has advocated a "step-by-step" return to normal conditions if the figures for new contaminations "stabilise at a low level" and if "hygiene measures are maintained". Just under 3,000 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

German venues should stay shut for 18 months: expert

Former Manchester United star Marouane Fellaini was discharged on Tuesday after three weeks in a Chinese hospital being treated for coronavirus, his club said.

The 32-year-old Shandong Luneng midfielder, the only player known to have contracted the disease in the Chinese Super League (CSL), will now spend 14 days in quarantine for further observation.

The Belgium international said on March 22 that he had tested positive for the virus, having just returned to China, but assured fans that he was feeling fine.

While in hospital in the city of Jinan, Fellaini posted videos of himself on Instagram exercising in his room.

"Fellaini was assessed and was deemed to have recovered, and was discharged today," Shandong said in a brief statement.

China, where the outbreak emerged in December, says that it has curbed the illness at home but is now worried about a second wave of infections from overseas.

Fellaini's positive test dealt a blow to the CSL's hopes of starting the season any time soon, after its February 22 start date was &nbsp;indefinitely postponed.

Fellaini, also formerly of Everton, joined Shandong from Manchester United in February last year for a reported 7.2 million euros.

He enjoyed a productive first season in China, scoring 12 goals in 34 matches and providing five assists.

Former Manchester United star Marouane Fellaini was discharged on Tuesday after three weeks in a Chinese hospital being treated for coronavirus, his club said. The 32-year-old Shandong Luneng midfielder, the only player known to have contracted the disease in the Chinese Super League (CSL), will now spend 14 days in quarantine for further observation.

Former Manchester United star Marouane Fellaini was discharged on Tuesday after three weeks in a Chinese hospital being treated for coronavirus, his club said. The 32-year-old Shandong Luneng midfielder, the only player known to have contracted the disease in the Chinese Super League (CSL), will now spend 14 days in quarantine for further observation. The Belgium international said on March 22 that he had tested positive for the virus, having just returned to China, but assured fans that he was feeling fine. While in hospital in the city of Jinan, Fellaini posted videos of himself on Instagram exercising in his room. "Fellaini was assessed and was deemed to have recovered, and was discharged today," Shandong said in a brief statement. China, where the outbreak emerged in December, says that it has curbed the illness at home but is now worried about a second wave of infections from overseas. Fellaini's positive test dealt a blow to the CSL's hopes of starting the season any time soon, after its February 22 start date was indefinitely postponed. Fellaini, also formerly of Everton, joined Shandong from Manchester United in February last year for a reported 7.2 million euros. He enjoyed a productive first season in China, scoring 12 goals in 34 matches and providing five assists.

Marouane Fellaini out of Chinese hospital after coronavirus scare

A month has now passed since the last football matches were played before packed stadiums in Europe, and the havoc wrought by the coronavirus pandemic means that nobody can say with any certainty when the sport might return.

A crowd of 50,000 filled Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow on Thursday, March 12 to see Rangers lose 3-1 to Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League.

Other matches that night were played behind closed doors, or postponed altogether, as Italy announced its death toll from the virus had passed 1,000.

Fast forward 31 days and the figures make for grim reading throughout Europe, with Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom the worst hit. Countries across the continent are now weeks into restrictive lockdowns.

Nobody knows when sport will be allowed to restart behind closed doors let alone before crowds. The psychological impact of the current situation means many people may well now have second thoughts about mixing with vast crowds at a football match in future.

In any case, as Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admitted when the Premier League season was suspended on March 13: "Today, football and football matches really aren't important at all."

Yet his club are among those who have been worst hit by the suspension, given that they stand on the brink of winning the English title for the first time in 30 years.

In England, football will not return until it is "safe and appropriate"to do so, authorities have said.

However, UEFA, the governing body for the game in Europe, has remained optimistic about the prospect of finishing the season and is working on the possibility of playing in July and August if need be.

Aleksander Ceferin, the UEFA president, has also said that there is "no way" Liverpool should be denied the Premier League title, and suggested that "in case the matches cannot be played, we will need to find a way".

Scrapping a season that was close to its conclusion would not make sense, but it remains to be seen if the campaign can resume.

<h2>- 'Critical situation' -</h2>

"No match, no competition, no league is worth risking a single human life," FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said.&nbsp;"It would be more than irresponsible to force competitions to resume if things are not 100 percent safe."

The damage caused by COVID-19 has been dramatic. Even players are not worrying about returning to action.

"It's not the thing I am worrying about. I am thinking about my family first and foremost and then about getting this sorted. This is a critical situation," Paris Saint-Germain's Pablo Sarabia told AFP.

Leading football players and figures -- from Juventus and France star Blaise Matuidi to Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta -- have tested positive for the virus. Former Real Madrid president Lorenzo Sanz died.

Euro 2020 was postponed by a year, as was the Copa America.

Players at top sides have taken pay cuts, of 70 percent in the case of Barcelona.

There has been an unseemly dispute in England after UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock called for Premier League players to accept wage cuts.

Wealthy English clubs have also faced a backlash for tapping into a government scheme allowing them to furlough non-playing staff. Liverpool performed a U-turn and apologised for having applied.

<h2>- Profound changes? -</h2>

However, those wealthy clubs cannot afford to do without the income they get from broadcasters. That is at the core of their desperation to complete this season.

In England, the cost to Premier League clubs of having to reimburse broadcasters for matches not played has been put at 762 million pounds ($951m).

While idle players are stuck at home, trying to follow fitness programmes in their front rooms or gardens, many wonder if football will be profoundly changed because of the financial impact of this crisis.

"The economy will be different and so will football. Maybe it will be better," Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti told Italy's Corriere dello Sport. That remains to be seen.

A month has now passed since the last football matches were played before packed stadiums in Europe, and the havoc wrought by the coronavirus pandemic means that nobody can say with any certainty when the sport might return.

A month has now passed since the last football matches were played before packed stadiums in Europe, and the havoc wrought by the coronavirus pandemic means that nobody can say with any certainty when the sport might return. A crowd of 50,000 filled Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow on Thursday, March 12 to see Rangers lose 3-1 to Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League. Other matches that night were played behind closed doors, or postponed altogether, as Italy announced its death toll from the virus had passed 1,000. Fast forward 31 days and the figures make for grim reading throughout Europe, with Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom the worst hit. Countries across the continent are now weeks into restrictive lockdowns. Nobody knows when sport will be allowed to restart behind closed doors let alone before crowds. The psychological impact of the current situation means many people may well now have second thoughts about mixing with vast crowds at a football match in future. In any case, as Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admitted when the Premier League season was suspended on March 13: "Today, football and football matches really aren't important at all." Yet his club are among those who have been worst hit by the suspension, given that they stand on the brink of winning the English title for the first time in 30 years. In England, football will not return until it is "safe and appropriate"to do so, authorities have said. However, UEFA, the governing body for the game in Europe, has remained optimistic about the prospect of finishing the season and is working on the possibility of playing in July and August if need be. Aleksander Ceferin, the UEFA president, has also said that there is "no way" Liverpool should be denied the Premier League title, and suggested that "in case the matches cannot be played, we will need to find a way". Scrapping a season that was close to its conclusion would not make sense, but it remains to be seen if the campaign can resume. - 'Critical situation' - "No match, no competition, no league is worth risking a single human life," FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said. "It would be more than irresponsible to force competitions to resume if things are not 100 percent safe." The damage caused by COVID-19 has been dramatic. Even players are not worrying about returning to action. "It's not the thing I am worrying about. I am thinking about my family first and foremost and then about getting this sorted. This is a critical situation," Paris Saint-Germain's Pablo Sarabia told AFP. Leading football players and figures -- from Juventus and France star Blaise Matuidi to Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta -- have tested positive for the virus. Former Real Madrid president Lorenzo Sanz died. Euro 2020 was postponed by a year, as was the Copa America. Players at top sides have taken pay cuts, of 70 percent in the case of Barcelona. There has been an unseemly dispute in England after UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock called for Premier League players to accept wage cuts. Wealthy English clubs have also faced a backlash for tapping into a government scheme allowing them to furlough non-playing staff. Liverpool performed a U-turn and apologised for having applied. - Profound changes? - However, those wealthy clubs cannot afford to do without the income they get from broadcasters. That is at the core of their desperation to complete this season. In England, the cost to Premier League clubs of having to reimburse broadcasters for matches not played has been put at 762 million pounds ($951m). While idle players are stuck at home, trying to follow fitness programmes in their front rooms or gardens, many wonder if football will be profoundly changed because of the financial impact of this crisis. "The economy will be different and so will football. Maybe it will be better," Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti told Italy's Corriere dello Sport. That remains to be seen.

A month into lockdown, football forced to play waiting game

Premier League players on Wednesday announced that they have launched #PlayersTogether initiative to generate funds for Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) in a bid to combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.

#PlayersTogether has been launched to help those fighting in the front line of defence on the NHS during the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

"It is about we, as players, collaborating together to create a voluntary initiative, separate to any other league and club conversation," a statement from the group said.

"To try and help, along with so many others in the country, to make a real difference," it added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-admits-he-was-in-the-wrong-over-training-session-291494" hreflang="en">Jose Mourinho admits he was in the wrong over training session</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A powerful show support from all players to NHS workers and those on the front-line.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayersTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayersTogether</a> <a href="https://t.co/2VmEbK6Rn5">pic.twitter.com/2VmEbK6Rn5</a>
— Professional Footballers' Association (@PFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/PFA/status/1247982054542913539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Jordan Henderson, Harry Kane, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Marcus &nbsp;Rashford among many others took to social media platforms to post about the initiative.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Premier League had proposed pay cuts up to 30 per cent but the talks didn’t materialize with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) alarming that the NHS could suffer from the loss of tax receipts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketers-agree-virus-package-to-support-game-291491" hreflang="en">Cricketers agree virus package to support game</a>

The league's chief executive Richard Masters admitted the virus fall-out could cost the top-flight "at least £1 billion" ($1.23 billion, 1.13 billion euros).

Whereas, PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor stated that players had ‘agreed to play their part’. PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said the players had "agreed to play their part" as pressure mounts to find a collective pay deal.

More than 60,000 including Prime Minister Boris Johnson have tested positive for the deadly COVID-19 with more than 7,000 dead from the virus.

Premier League players on Wednesday announced that they have launched #PlayersTogether initiative to generate funds for Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) in a bid to combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier League players on Wednesday announced that they have launched #PlayersTogether initiative to generate funds for Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) in a bid to combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic. #PlayersTogether has been launched to help those fighting in the front line of defence on the NHS during the coronavirus outbreak. "It is about we, as players, collaborating together to create a voluntary initiative, separate to any other league and club conversation," a statement from the group said. "To try and help, along with so many others in the country, to make a real difference," it added. ALSO READ: Jose Mourinho admits he was in the wrong over training session A powerful show support from all players to NHS workers and those on the front-line.#PlayersTogether pic.twitter.com/2VmEbK6Rn5 — Professional Footballers' Association (@PFA) April 8, 2020 × The likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Jordan Henderson, Harry Kane, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Marcus Rashford among many others took to social media platforms to post about the initiative. Earlier, the Premier League had proposed pay cuts up to 30 per cent but the talks didn’t materialize with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) alarming that the NHS could suffer from the loss of tax receipts. ALSO READ: Cricketers agree virus package to support game The league's chief executive Richard Masters admitted the virus fall-out could cost the top-flight "at least £1 billion" ($1.23 billion, 1.13 billion euros). Whereas, PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor stated that players had ‘agreed to play their part’. PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said the players had "agreed to play their part" as pressure mounts to find a collective pay deal. More than 60,000 including Prime Minister Boris Johnson have tested positive for the deadly COVID-19 with more than 7,000 dead from the virus.

Premier League stars launch '#PlayersTogether' campaign to support NHS charities

Tottenham Hotspur have reminded players of their responsibilities during Britain's coronavirus lockdown after pictures and video on social media emerged of manager Jose Mourinho and several members of his squad that appeared to show them flouting social-distancing rules.

Portuguese boss Mourinho was pictured training with Tanguy Ndombele on Hadley Common, while Davinson Sanchez and Ryan Sessegnon were seen running side by side in the same public park in north London.&nbsp;

Spurs full-back Serge Aurier also posted a video of himself jogging alongside another person on Instagram.

The Premier League has been suspended since mid-March due to the spread of COVID-19.

The outbreak has seen the British government introduce a strict series of measures which, while they allow individuals to go out for a walk or exercise once a day, state they must remain at least two metres apart unless they are with a member of the same household.

"All of our players have been reminded to respect social distancing when exercising outdoors," said a Tottenham spokesperson on Tuesday.

"We shall continue to reinforce this message."

Tottenham had already been criticised during the outbreak for applying to the British government's furlough financial assistance programme for company wage bills last week on the same day it was revealed Spurs chairman Daniel Levy was paid £7 million ($8.7 million) last season.

Although Levy is among the Spurs staff members taking a 20 percent pay cut, the north London club have come under pressure to follow European champions and Premier League leaders Liverpool in reversing their decision to use public money to pay employees.

Tottenham Hotspur have reminded players of their responsibilities during Britain's coronavirus lockdown after pictures and video on social media emerged of manager Jose Mourinho and several members of his squad that appeared to show them flouting social-distancing rules.

Tottenham Hotspur have reminded players of their responsibilities during Britain's coronavirus lockdown after pictures and video on social media emerged of manager Jose Mourinho and several members of his squad that appeared to show them flouting social-distancing rules. Portuguese boss Mourinho was pictured training with Tanguy Ndombele on Hadley Common, while Davinson Sanchez and Ryan Sessegnon were seen running side by side in the same public park in north London. Spurs full-back Serge Aurier also posted a video of himself jogging alongside another person on Instagram. The Premier League has been suspended since mid-March due to the spread of COVID-19. The outbreak has seen the British government introduce a strict series of measures which, while they allow individuals to go out for a walk or exercise once a day, state they must remain at least two metres apart unless they are with a member of the same household. "All of our players have been reminded to respect social distancing when exercising outdoors," said a Tottenham spokesperson on Tuesday. "We shall continue to reinforce this message." Tottenham had already been criticised during the outbreak for applying to the British government's furlough financial assistance programme for company wage bills last week on the same day it was revealed Spurs chairman Daniel Levy was paid £7 million ($8.7 million) last season. Although Levy is among the Spurs staff members taking a 20 percent pay cut, the north London club have come under pressure to follow European champions and Premier League leaders Liverpool in reversing their decision to use public money to pay employees.

Tottenham issue warning after Mourinho and players seen training

Liverpool were forced to apologise as the Premier League club ditched their controversial plan to furlough non-playing staff during the coronavirus on Monday, while FIFA urged players and clubs to reach agreement over wage reductions.

Liverpool faced stinging criticism from fans and former players after revealing over the weekend that they wanted to use the UK government's furlough scheme.

Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool's US-based owners, wanted to put around 200 staff on enforced leave during the pandemic while the government paid 80 percent of their wages.

Fellow top-flight teams Tottenham, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Norwich have already furloughed staff, but it was table-toppers Liverpool -- with pre-tax profits of £42 million ($51.7 million) for the 2018-19 season -- who came in for the most criticism, in part due to their reputation as a club with a strong bond to Merseyside's working-class community.

The fierce backlash sparked a sudden climbdown as Liverpool chief executive Peter Moore wrote an open letter to supporters announcing they would opt for "alternative means" to the furlough route after consulting "key stakeholders".

"We believe we came to the wrong conclusion last week to announce that we intended to apply to the Coronavirus Retention Scheme and furlough staff due to the suspension of the Premier League football calendar, and are truly sorry for that," wrote Moore.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher tweeted: "Well done @PeterMooreLFC @LFC a big mistake initially &amp; thankfully now it's been put right."

With the Premier League postponed indefinitely because of the virus, Manchester City, bankrolled by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Mansour, said they would not be using the government's job retention scheme, with Manchester United set to follow their example.

Liverpool's U-turn came as England's top-flight teams, among the richest in the world, were under increasing scrutiny, with government ministers warning bosses and players they should "think carefully" over their next moves.

The highest-paid Premier League players such as Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne command eye-watering salaries, reportedly nearing £20 million ($25 million, 23 million euros) a year.

<h2>- Pay-cut impasse -</h2>

FIFA on Monday urged clubs and players to reach agreement on taking wage reductions in order to protect clubs who are suffering financial damage, sources at world football's governing body said.

It also recommended that players' contracts be extended until the end of the interrupted football seasons and that the transfer window should not open until that time.

The call from FIFA comes as Premier League clubs are locked in talks with players and their representatives about taking pay cuts.

The English top flight is lagging behind other European leagues.

In Spain, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid players have agreed to pay cuts of 70 percent.

Many politicians have urged action from the Premier League and in a poll conducted by British polling company YouGov last week, 92 percent of respondents said they backed a pay cut.

But some leading players resent the political pressure. Former England captain Wayne Rooney has criticised the government and the Premier League for placing footballers in a "no-win" situation.

"In my opinion it is now a no-win situation," Rooney said in a newspaper column. "Whatever way you look at it, we're easy targets."

Meanwhile, the chief executive of England's Professional Footballers' Association, the players' union, said he would not take a cut to his £2 million salary.

"The PFA will make donations and the PFA is involved in the players' charity," Gordon Taylor told The Guardian when asked directly if he would accept a reduction in salary.

Taylor added his members believed the Premier League's suggestion of a proposed 30 percent wage reduction across all top-flight clubs was impractical given the teams' differing financial positions.

"You can't have one suit fitting all sizes because there is such a variance in income and expenditure," he said.

But in the latest sign of the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus, England manager Gareth Southgate and the Football Association's top earners have agreed to take wage cuts of up to 30 percent.

Liverpool were forced to apologise as the Premier League club ditched their controversial plan to furlough non-playing staff during the coronavirus on Monday, while FIFA urged players and clubs to reach agreement over wage reductions.

Liverpool were forced to apologise as the Premier League club ditched their controversial plan to furlough non-playing staff during the coronavirus on Monday, while FIFA urged players and clubs to reach agreement over wage reductions. Liverpool faced stinging criticism from fans and former players after revealing over the weekend that they wanted to use the UK government's furlough scheme. Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool's US-based owners, wanted to put around 200 staff on enforced leave during the pandemic while the government paid 80 percent of their wages. Fellow top-flight teams Tottenham, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Norwich have already furloughed staff, but it was table-toppers Liverpool -- with pre-tax profits of £42 million ($51.7 million) for the 2018-19 season -- who came in for the most criticism, in part due to their reputation as a club with a strong bond to Merseyside's working-class community. The fierce backlash sparked a sudden climbdown as Liverpool chief executive Peter Moore wrote an open letter to supporters announcing they would opt for "alternative means" to the furlough route after consulting "key stakeholders". "We believe we came to the wrong conclusion last week to announce that we intended to apply to the Coronavirus Retention Scheme and furlough staff due to the suspension of the Premier League football calendar, and are truly sorry for that," wrote Moore. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher tweeted: "Well done @PeterMooreLFC @LFC a big mistake initially & thankfully now it's been put right." With the Premier League postponed indefinitely because of the virus, Manchester City, bankrolled by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Mansour, said they would not be using the government's job retention scheme, with Manchester United set to follow their example. Liverpool's U-turn came as England's top-flight teams, among the richest in the world, were under increasing scrutiny, with government ministers warning bosses and players they should "think carefully" over their next moves. The highest-paid Premier League players such as Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne command eye-watering salaries, reportedly nearing £20 million ($25 million, 23 million euros) a year. - Pay-cut impasse - FIFA on Monday urged clubs and players to reach agreement on taking wage reductions in order to protect clubs who are suffering financial damage, sources at world football's governing body said. It also recommended that players' contracts be extended until the end of the interrupted football seasons and that the transfer window should not open until that time. The call from FIFA comes as Premier League clubs are locked in talks with players and their representatives about taking pay cuts. The English top flight is lagging behind other European leagues. In Spain, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid players have agreed to pay cuts of 70 percent. Many politicians have urged action from the Premier League and in a poll conducted by British polling company YouGov last week, 92 percent of respondents said they backed a pay cut. But some leading players resent the political pressure. Former England captain Wayne Rooney has criticised the government and the Premier League for placing footballers in a "no-win" situation. "In my opinion it is now a no-win situation," Rooney said in a newspaper column. "Whatever way you look at it, we're easy targets." Meanwhile, the chief executive of England's Professional Footballers' Association, the players' union, said he would not take a cut to his £2 million salary. "The PFA will make donations and the PFA is involved in the players' charity," Gordon Taylor told The Guardian when asked directly if he would accept a reduction in salary. Taylor added his members believed the Premier League's suggestion of a proposed 30 percent wage reduction across all top-flight clubs was impractical given the teams' differing financial positions. "You can't have one suit fitting all sizes because there is such a variance in income and expenditure," he said. But in the latest sign of the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus, England manager Gareth Southgate and the Football Association's top earners have agreed to take wage cuts of up to 30 percent.

Liverpool make U-turn over furlough scheme after clubs slammed

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed.

"Devastated, Reims cries for Bernard Gonzalez," said a statement released by the Ligue 1 club.

"Not just the club but also hundreds of men and women in Reims."

Contacted by AFP, Reims mayor Arnaud Robinet said he had been made aware of the suicide of the 60-year-old, who had worked at the club for over 20 years, by the local prefecture.

"I was told Doctor Gonzalez had left a note in which he mentioned that he had tested positive for COVID-19."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Médecin. Artiste. Stadiste. 
Docteur Gonzalez. 
<a href="https://t.co/Wlw6Bbr7gc">pic.twitter.com/Wlw6Bbr7gc</a>
— Stade de Reims (@StadeDeReims) <a href="https://twitter.com/StadeDeReims/status/1246878278608183298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A medical source also confirmed to AFP the existence of this letter but added that the doctor had appeared "to be in good shape two days ago".

"I am shocked by his death because he was someone I had known for many years," said Robinet.

"No only was he the club doctor, but he was also the GP of many people in Reims. He was known for his human and professional qualities.

"He will be missed by the football family and all those in Reims who met him."

Reims club president Jean-Pierre Caillot said he was "stunned" by the news.&nbsp;

"This pandemic has struck Reims in the heart. A great personality and great professional of the sport has left us," said Caillot.

More than 8,000 people have died from the coronavirus in France.

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed.

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed. "Devastated, Reims cries for Bernard Gonzalez," said a statement released by the Ligue 1 club. "Not just the club but also hundreds of men and women in Reims." Contacted by AFP, Reims mayor Arnaud Robinet said he had been made aware of the suicide of the 60-year-old, who had worked at the club for over 20 years, by the local prefecture. "I was told Doctor Gonzalez had left a note in which he mentioned that he had tested positive for COVID-19." Médecin. Artiste. Stadiste. Docteur Gonzalez. pic.twitter.com/Wlw6Bbr7gc — Stade de Reims (@StadeDeReims) April 5, 2020 × A medical source also confirmed to AFP the existence of this letter but added that the doctor had appeared "to be in good shape two days ago". "I am shocked by his death because he was someone I had known for many years," said Robinet. "No only was he the club doctor, but he was also the GP of many people in Reims. He was known for his human and professional qualities. "He will be missed by the football family and all those in Reims who met him." Reims club president Jean-Pierre Caillot said he was "stunned" by the news. "This pandemic has struck Reims in the heart. A great personality and great professional of the sport has left us," said Caillot. More than 8,000 people have died from the coronavirus in France.

French club doctor 'commits suicide' after coronavirus diagnosis

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus.

Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

"The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club.

"This will&nbsp;be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities.&nbsp;

"It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed."

German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest.

Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed.

"In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement.

More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13. "The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club. "This will be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities. "It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed." German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest. Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed. "In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement. More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich to resume training on Monday

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City on Monday released a statement confirming the tragic news as they stated: “The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old. Everyone associated with the club sends their most heartfelt sympathy at this most distressing time to Pep, his family and all their friends.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old .
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1247162431467483136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-set-to-extend-2019-20-football-season-indefinitely-amid-covid-19-pandemic-290885" hreflang="en">FIFA set to extend 2019-20 football season indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Guardiola has been one of the most active managers in spreading awareness surrounding the deadly COVID-19. The former Barcelona manager had earlier donated €1million to help provide medical equipment in the fight against COVID-19 in Spain. <o:p></o:p>

The former Spanish midfielder had vowed that everyone will come out of the situation surrounding the coronavirus stronger while urging people to follow the advisory by the medical experts and government.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<o:p></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/transfer-fees-will-decrease-due-to-covid-19-bayern-munich-president-herbert-hainer-290882" hreflang="en">'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer</a>

"We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," Guardiola had said in a video.<o:p></o:p>

"You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. We’ll come back from this stronger, better, kinder…and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe,” he added.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, with football season around the world suspended indefinitely, players and managers have been restricted to online coaching with limited training (only indoors).<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus.

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus. Manchester City on Monday released a statement confirming the tragic news as they stated: “The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old. Everyone associated with the club sends their most heartfelt sympathy at this most distressing time to Pep, his family and all their friends.” The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old . — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 6, 2020 × ALSO READ: FIFA set to extend 2019-20 football season indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic Guardiola has been one of the most active managers in spreading awareness surrounding the deadly COVID-19. The former Barcelona manager had earlier donated €1million to help provide medical equipment in the fight against COVID-19 in Spain. The former Spanish midfielder had vowed that everyone will come out of the situation surrounding the coronavirus stronger while urging people to follow the advisory by the medical experts and government. ALSO READ: 'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer "We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," Guardiola had said in a video. "You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. We’ll come back from this stronger, better, kinder…and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe,” he added. Meanwhile, with football season around the world suspended indefinitely, players and managers have been restricted to online coaching with limited training (only indoors).

Man City boss Pep Guardiola's mother dies after contracting COVID-19; clubs issues statement

FIFA is set to put an indefinite extension to the already postponed 2019-20 season across the globe, allowing every football authority of respective countries to determine when the halted leagues can finish. FIFA is also planning to alter the dates of the summer transfer window and allow contract extensions for players whose deals run out on June 30.<o:p></o:p>

The decision to indefinitely extend the leagues, across the world, comes after UEFA’s commitment to finish the current season. FIFA is likely to confirm the indefinite extension in the coming days.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/transfer-fees-will-decrease-due-to-covid-19-bayern-munich-president-herbert-hainer-290882" hreflang="en">'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer</a>

While FIFA has not taken off ‘null and void’ off the table, the decision has reduced the chances of leagues being cancelled altogether. The move to extend the season indefinitely was welcomed by one Premier League club as ‘really sensible’, as per a report in The Athletic.<o:p></o:p>

The report states that timeframes were not discussed at length in Friday’s meeting between Premier League clubs as the fears of repaying £762 million to broadcasters, should the season not be completed, continued.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spit-sweat-and-shaking-on-it-three-sports-habits-that-could-change-after-coronavirus-290857" hreflang="en">Spit, sweat and shaking on it: Three sports habits that could change after coronavirus</a>

Some Premier League clubs have already accepted that there might be no other option than the resumption of the postponed season behind closed doors or even at neutral grounds, others clubs feel the league should return only when the fans are able to visit the stadiums.<o:p></o:p>

Another major topic of discussion, to be held, is clubs’ concerns surrounding the extension of contracts which are set to be over on June 30, as they fear, with no concrete date for a return of football, &nbsp;they may have to carry out paying money with no signs of income during the lockdown period.<o:p></o:p>

FIFA is set to put an indefinite extension to the already postponed 2019-20 season across the globe, allowing every football authority of respective countries to determine when the halted leagues can finish.

FIFA is set to put an indefinite extension to the already postponed 2019-20 season across the globe, allowing every football authority of respective countries to determine when the halted leagues can finish. FIFA is also planning to alter the dates of the summer transfer window and allow contract extensions for players whose deals run out on June 30. The decision to indefinitely extend the leagues, across the world, comes after UEFA’s commitment to finish the current season. FIFA is likely to confirm the indefinite extension in the coming days. ALSO READ: 'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer While FIFA has not taken off ‘null and void’ off the table, the decision has reduced the chances of leagues being cancelled altogether. The move to extend the season indefinitely was welcomed by one Premier League club as ‘really sensible’, as per a report in The Athletic. The report states that timeframes were not discussed at length in Friday’s meeting between Premier League clubs as the fears of repaying £762 million to broadcasters, should the season not be completed, continued. ALSO READ: Spit, sweat and shaking on it: Three sports habits that could change after coronavirus Some Premier League clubs have already accepted that there might be no other option than the resumption of the postponed season behind closed doors or even at neutral grounds, others clubs feel the league should return only when the fans are able to visit the stadiums. Another major topic of discussion, to be held, is clubs’ concerns surrounding the extension of contracts which are set to be over on June 30, as they fear, with no concrete date for a return of football, they may have to carry out paying money with no signs of income during the lockdown period.

FIFA set to extend 2019-20 football season indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic

Premier League clubs will ask players to take a combination of pay cuts and deferrals amounting to 30 percent of their salary due to the financial crisis caused by coronavirus, the league said in a statement on Friday.

The league's highly-paid players have come under increasing pressure to take pay cuts from government officials in recent days.

"Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to consult their players regarding a combination of conditional reductions and deferrals amounting to 30 per cent of total annual remuneration," the Premier League said in a statement.

The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) will meet with league and club officials to discuss the proposal on Saturday.

A meeting between the 20 English top-flight clubs also agreed to indefinitely extend the suspension of the season until it is "safe and appropriate" for football to return.

The clubs are desperate for the season to be finished if possible to avoid the potential of having to reimburse broadcasters a reported £760 million ($942 million) if they fail to fulfil fixtures for television contracts.

However, despite reports of creative ways to finish the campaign with matches behind closed doors and players quarantined in World Cup style training camps, the clubs insist they will follow government advice on when it is safe for matches to return.

"Any return to play&nbsp;will only be with the full support of&nbsp;government and when medical guidance allows," the statement added.

Despite their own financial troubles, Premier League clubs agreed to provide a £125 million fund for the English Football League and National League to help those further down the football pyramid and a £20 million charitable donation to help those affected by coronavirus.

Premier League clubs will ask players to take a combination of pay cuts and deferrals amounting to 30 percent of their salary due to the financial crisis caused by coronavirus, the league said in a statement on Friday.

Premier League clubs will ask players to take a combination of pay cuts and deferrals amounting to 30 percent of their salary due to the financial crisis caused by coronavirus, the league said in a statement on Friday. The league's highly-paid players have come under increasing pressure to take pay cuts from government officials in recent days. "Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to consult their players regarding a combination of conditional reductions and deferrals amounting to 30 per cent of total annual remuneration," the Premier League said in a statement. The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) will meet with league and club officials to discuss the proposal on Saturday. A meeting between the 20 English top-flight clubs also agreed to indefinitely extend the suspension of the season until it is "safe and appropriate" for football to return. The clubs are desperate for the season to be finished if possible to avoid the potential of having to reimburse broadcasters a reported £760 million ($942 million) if they fail to fulfil fixtures for television contracts. However, despite reports of creative ways to finish the campaign with matches behind closed doors and players quarantined in World Cup style training camps, the clubs insist they will follow government advice on when it is safe for matches to return. "Any return to play will only be with the full support of government and when medical guidance allows," the statement added. Despite their own financial troubles, Premier League clubs agreed to provide a £125 million fund for the English Football League and National League to help those further down the football pyramid and a £20 million charitable donation to help those affected by coronavirus.

Premier League clubs lobby players to take 30 percent pay hit

The Premier League's highly-paid players have become an unwilling target amid the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with government officials wading in to tell stars to take pay cuts.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock used the government's daily briefing on the crisis on Thursday to tell players to "make a contribution, take a pay cut and play their part."

Talks are ongoing between the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), Premier League and English Football League (EFL) with the players' union accepting they must "share the financial burden of the Covid-19 outbreak."

However, by waiting three weeks since football in England was suspended on public health grounds, the players and the Premier League may have already lost the PR war.

"If you are out of sync with society at the moment, that’s a huge mistake," Adrian Bevington, English Football Association's former director of communications, told PRWeek, the trade magazine for the public relations industry.

"You have to maintain that feeling of empathy for where we are and the seriousness of the situation."

The decision by four Premier League clubs to use the government's furlough scheme, designed to protect jobs at stricken companies, has been met with a government backlash.

Tottenham, Newcastle, Norwich and Bournemouth plan to use government funds to pay 80 percent of wages of non-playing staff up to a maximum of 2,500 pounds ($3,100) a month.

The average salary for a Premier League player is three million pounds a year, according to the latest Global Sports Salaries survey.

Julian Knight, who chairs the British government's Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, accused those clubs of living in a "moral vacuum".

David Lammy of the opposition Labour party and MP for Tottenham said: "It’s criminal that Premier League footballers haven’t moved more quickly to take pay cuts and deferrals."

The Premier League's huge popularity worldwide has driven up players' salaries on an exponential scale over the past 20 years due to a boom in television rights and sponsorship.

However, that could all come crashing down if fans and sponsors are turned off by the stand off at an already difficult time for the game financially.

"It is going to be imperative for everyone in the sports industry –- clubs, players, managers, commercial partners, sponsors -– that they really dial into the mindset of people coming out of this," added Bevington.

"It is such a difficult time and will be a challenging environment for so many people economically and healthwise. They’ve got to get that right."

<h2>- Political football -</h2>

However, there is also frustration among players that they are being used a pawns in a political battle.

Premier League players are being encouraged to follow the example of Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Juventus and Atletico Madrid where players have taken pay cuts to protect other staff members.

Many in England have already made huge contributions to help their local communities.

Manchester United's Marcus Rashford has teamed up with charity FareShare to help feed at least 400,000 children, while an anonymous Liverpool player has donated £25,000 to Alder Hey hospital.

Yet, the players are questioning why they and not many billionaire owners of clubs are being told to foot the bill for the salaries of non-playing staff.

"We are aware of the public sentiment that the players should pay non-playing staff’s salaries. However, our current position is that -– as businesses -- if clubs can afford to pay their players and staff, they should," the PFA said in a statement.

Tottenham's decision to furlough 550 staff on Tuesday came on the same day it was revealed chairman Daniel Levy was paid seven million pounds last season.

According to the Sunday Times rich list, Tottenham owner Joe Lewis, who resides in the Bahamas, saw his wealth surge to 4.4billion pounds last year.

"The same criticisms are not being made of the banking industry, not being made of hedge fund managers, they are not being made of lawyers who charge £10,000 a day, accountants, or off-shore funds which avoid paying tax," football finance expert Kieran Maguire told AFP.

"Joe Lewis himself is worth over four billion pounds, (but) we are having a go at Harry Kane who is a guy with a career that is going to end at 35."

At a time of huge public spending to shore up the National Health Service (NHS) and economy, there is also an argument that a cut in player wages could be detrimental to the public purse.

"What contributes more to the government, the NHS/police," tweeted former Stoke and Ireland striker Jonathan Walters.

"A PL player taking a pay cut that stays with the clubs owners or paying more than 45 percent tax through PAYE on a large salary which goes directly to the government."

The Premier League's highly-paid players have become an unwilling target amid the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with government officials wading in to tell stars to take pay cuts.

The Premier League's highly-paid players have become an unwilling target amid the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with government officials wading in to tell stars to take pay cuts. Health Secretary Matt Hancock used the government's daily briefing on the crisis on Thursday to tell players to "make a contribution, take a pay cut and play their part." Talks are ongoing between the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), Premier League and English Football League (EFL) with the players' union accepting they must "share the financial burden of the Covid-19 outbreak." However, by waiting three weeks since football in England was suspended on public health grounds, the players and the Premier League may have already lost the PR war. "If you are out of sync with society at the moment, that’s a huge mistake," Adrian Bevington, English Football Association's former director of communications, told PRWeek, the trade magazine for the public relations industry. "You have to maintain that feeling of empathy for where we are and the seriousness of the situation." The decision by four Premier League clubs to use the government's furlough scheme, designed to protect jobs at stricken companies, has been met with a government backlash. Tottenham, Newcastle, Norwich and Bournemouth plan to use government funds to pay 80 percent of wages of non-playing staff up to a maximum of 2,500 pounds ($3,100) a month. The average salary for a Premier League player is three million pounds a year, according to the latest Global Sports Salaries survey. Julian Knight, who chairs the British government's Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, accused those clubs of living in a "moral vacuum". David Lammy of the opposition Labour party and MP for Tottenham said: "It’s criminal that Premier League footballers haven’t moved more quickly to take pay cuts and deferrals." The Premier League's huge popularity worldwide has driven up players' salaries on an exponential scale over the past 20 years due to a boom in television rights and sponsorship. However, that could all come crashing down if fans and sponsors are turned off by the stand off at an already difficult time for the game financially. "It is going to be imperative for everyone in the sports industry –- clubs, players, managers, commercial partners, sponsors -– that they really dial into the mindset of people coming out of this," added Bevington. "It is such a difficult time and will be a challenging environment for so many people economically and healthwise. They’ve got to get that right." - Political football - However, there is also frustration among players that they are being used a pawns in a political battle. Premier League players are being encouraged to follow the example of Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Juventus and Atletico Madrid where players have taken pay cuts to protect other staff members. Many in England have already made huge contributions to help their local communities. Manchester United's Marcus Rashford has teamed up with charity FareShare to help feed at least 400,000 children, while an anonymous Liverpool player has donated £25,000 to Alder Hey hospital. Yet, the players are questioning why they and not many billionaire owners of clubs are being told to foot the bill for the salaries of non-playing staff. "We are aware of the public sentiment that the players should pay non-playing staff’s salaries. However, our current position is that -– as businesses -- if clubs can afford to pay their players and staff, they should," the PFA said in a statement. Tottenham's decision to furlough 550 staff on Tuesday came on the same day it was revealed chairman Daniel Levy was paid seven million pounds last season. According to the Sunday Times rich list, Tottenham owner Joe Lewis, who resides in the Bahamas, saw his wealth surge to 4.4billion pounds last year. "The same criticisms are not being made of the banking industry, not being made of hedge fund managers, they are not being made of lawyers who charge £10,000 a day, accountants, or off-shore funds which avoid paying tax," football finance expert Kieran Maguire told AFP. "Joe Lewis himself is worth over four billion pounds, (but) we are having a go at Harry Kane who is a guy with a career that is going to end at 35." At a time of huge public spending to shore up the National Health Service (NHS) and economy, there is also an argument that a cut in player wages could be detrimental to the public purse. "What contributes more to the government, the NHS/police," tweeted former Stoke and Ireland striker Jonathan Walters. "A PL player taking a pay cut that stays with the clubs owners or paying more than 45 percent tax through PAYE on a large salary which goes directly to the government."

Premier League stars in firing line over taking pay cut

UEFA and Europe's top clubs have stated their determination that the current football season should be played to a conclusion and threatened that teams may be excluded from the next Champions League if their domestic competitions are ended prematurely.

In a joint letter released late on Thursday, UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA), and the European Leagues body representing nearly a thousand clubs in 29 countries, said that they were working on the possibility of playing on into July and August if need be.

The Champions League and Europa League -- both of which are currently frozen in the last-16 stage -- could be completed once the domestic seasons are finished, and "stopping competitions should really be the last resort after acknowledging that no calendar alternative would allow to conclude the season."

The joint response came after the Belgian Pro League announced on Thursday that it recommended declaring the current season over already with the present table accepted as final.

It is the first European league to take such a measure, although more could follow.

That means Club Brugge would in theory go straight into the next Champions League group stage, but UEFA, the ECA and the European Leagues indicated that they may be barred from continental competition if the Belgian league decision is finalised.

"It is of paramount importance that even a disruptive event like this epidemic does not prevent our competitions from being decided on the field, in accordance with their rules and that all sporting titles are awarded on the basis of results," the joint letter said.

<h2>- Not justified -</h2>

"We are confident that football can restart in the months to come –- with conditions that will be dictated by public authorities -- and believe that any decision of abandoning domestic competitions is, at this stage, premature and not justified.

"Since participation in UEFA club competitions is determined by the sporting result achieved at the end of a full domestic competition, a premature termination would cast doubts about the fulfilment of such condition."

The letter concluded: "UEFA reserves the right to assess the entitlement of clubs to be admitted to the 2020/21 UEFA club competitions."

UEFA has set up two working groups to devise a way for European football to get out of the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

One is tasked with looking at the legal and financial consequences of the crisis, while the other is devising a new match calendar. UEFA and the clubs have set themselves a mid-May target for deciding on the most viable option for completing the season.

There have been calls in other countries for this season to be declared null and void, but any option which rules out completing this season could have serious consequences for leagues reliant on huge television deals and who could find themselves having to reimburse broadcasters if remaining matches are not played.

Justifying its decision, the Belgian Pro League said it was "very unlikely" to be able to hold matches in front of crowds before June 30 and that it had "unanimously decided that it was not desirable...to continue the competition" after that date.

The decision still needs to be formally validated at a General Assembly on April 15.

UEFA and Europe's top clubs have stated their determination that the current football season should be played to a conclusion and threatened that teams may be excluded from the next Champions League if their domestic competitions are ended prematurely.

UEFA and Europe's top clubs have stated their determination that the current football season should be played to a conclusion and threatened that teams may be excluded from the next Champions League if their domestic competitions are ended prematurely. In a joint letter released late on Thursday, UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA), and the European Leagues body representing nearly a thousand clubs in 29 countries, said that they were working on the possibility of playing on into July and August if need be. The Champions League and Europa League -- both of which are currently frozen in the last-16 stage -- could be completed once the domestic seasons are finished, and "stopping competitions should really be the last resort after acknowledging that no calendar alternative would allow to conclude the season." The joint response came after the Belgian Pro League announced on Thursday that it recommended declaring the current season over already with the present table accepted as final. It is the first European league to take such a measure, although more could follow. That means Club Brugge would in theory go straight into the next Champions League group stage, but UEFA, the ECA and the European Leagues indicated that they may be barred from continental competition if the Belgian league decision is finalised. "It is of paramount importance that even a disruptive event like this epidemic does not prevent our competitions from being decided on the field, in accordance with their rules and that all sporting titles are awarded on the basis of results," the joint letter said. - Not justified - "We are confident that football can restart in the months to come –- with conditions that will be dictated by public authorities -- and believe that any decision of abandoning domestic competitions is, at this stage, premature and not justified. "Since participation in UEFA club competitions is determined by the sporting result achieved at the end of a full domestic competition, a premature termination would cast doubts about the fulfilment of such condition." The letter concluded: "UEFA reserves the right to assess the entitlement of clubs to be admitted to the 2020/21 UEFA club competitions." UEFA has set up two working groups to devise a way for European football to get out of the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. One is tasked with looking at the legal and financial consequences of the crisis, while the other is devising a new match calendar. UEFA and the clubs have set themselves a mid-May target for deciding on the most viable option for completing the season. There have been calls in other countries for this season to be declared null and void, but any option which rules out completing this season could have serious consequences for leagues reliant on huge television deals and who could find themselves having to reimburse broadcasters if remaining matches are not played. Justifying its decision, the Belgian Pro League said it was "very unlikely" to be able to hold matches in front of crowds before June 30 and that it had "unanimously decided that it was not desirable...to continue the competition" after that date. The decision still needs to be formally validated at a General Assembly on April 15.

UEFA warn clubs risk Champions League exclusion if seasons are not completed

Uruguay star Luis Suarez complained on Thursday that he has been "hurt" by criticism of him and fellow millionaire Barcelona players for the time it took to agree to pay cuts to help out other club employees.

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi announced on Monday that Barca's players had agreed to a 70 percent pay cut and to make contributions to ensure the club's non-playing staff could be paid in full during the state of alarm in Spain caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Footballers across Europe's top leagues have come under fire as some clubs have made cuts to their non-playing staff or their salaries while many wealthy players have yet to see their incomings affected.

"It hurts because we were the first to want to reach an agreement," Suarez told Uruguayan radio station Sport890.&nbsp;

"We know the situation the club is in, the situation the world is in right now and it was a minimal detail (holding up the agreement).

"But people have said things like us players didn't want to give in; that the basketball and handball players came to an agreement and we didn't.

"We hadn't come to an agreement because we were waiting to find the best solution for the club, and to our benefit and trying to help the employees."

In announcing the agreement, Messi had directed a thinly veiled swipe at the Barca board, led by president Josep Maria Bartomeu, whom he accused of undermining the players during recent negotiations.

His lengthy Instagram post was shared by a slew of teammates, including Suarez.

Striker Suarez, who has remained in Spain unlike some of his European-based international teammates such as Edinson Cavani and Diego Godin, called on Uruguay to impose a strict lockdown.

"It's the best solution for everyone. I know it's difficult in Uruguay where many people live day to day ... but if we don't all come together and go in the same direction, it's going to be difficult to come out of this situation," he said.

Uruguay has partially closed its borders, shut schools and shopping malls and advised people to social distance and stay at home, but hasn't imposed a lockdown.

So far, the country has had 350 coronavirus cases and four deaths.

Uruguay star Luis Suarez complained on Thursday that he has been "hurt" by criticism of him and fellow millionaire Barcelona players for the time it took to agree to pay cuts to help out other club employees.

Uruguay star Luis Suarez complained on Thursday that he has been "hurt" by criticism of him and fellow millionaire Barcelona players for the time it took to agree to pay cuts to help out other club employees. Argentine superstar Lionel Messi announced on Monday that Barca's players had agreed to a 70 percent pay cut and to make contributions to ensure the club's non-playing staff could be paid in full during the state of alarm in Spain caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Footballers across Europe's top leagues have come under fire as some clubs have made cuts to their non-playing staff or their salaries while many wealthy players have yet to see their incomings affected. "It hurts because we were the first to want to reach an agreement," Suarez told Uruguayan radio station Sport890. "We know the situation the club is in, the situation the world is in right now and it was a minimal detail (holding up the agreement). "But people have said things like us players didn't want to give in; that the basketball and handball players came to an agreement and we didn't. "We hadn't come to an agreement because we were waiting to find the best solution for the club, and to our benefit and trying to help the employees." In announcing the agreement, Messi had directed a thinly veiled swipe at the Barca board, led by president Josep Maria Bartomeu, whom he accused of undermining the players during recent negotiations. His lengthy Instagram post was shared by a slew of teammates, including Suarez. Striker Suarez, who has remained in Spain unlike some of his European-based international teammates such as Edinson Cavani and Diego Godin, called on Uruguay to impose a strict lockdown. "It's the best solution for everyone. I know it's difficult in Uruguay where many people live day to day ... but if we don't all come together and go in the same direction, it's going to be difficult to come out of this situation," he said. Uruguay has partially closed its borders, shut schools and shopping malls and advised people to social distance and stay at home, but hasn't imposed a lockdown. So far, the country has had 350 coronavirus cases and four deaths.

Luis Suarez 'hurt' by criticism of Barcelona players' pay cut delay

UEFA have made a move towards clearing the decks for the return of club football by announcing on Wednesday that all international matches that had been pushed back to June have now been postponed until further notice.

"This includes the play-off matches for UEFA EURO 2020 and qualifying matches for UEFA Women's EURO 2021," said European football's governing body in a statement.

"All other UEFA competition matches, including the centralised international friendly matches, remain postponed until further notice."

The decision followed a videoconference with Europe's 55 member federations as part of discussions on how to adapt the fixture calendar in the face of the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

The play-off semi-finals and finals that are supposed to decide the last four qualifying berths for the next European Championship were initially postponed at the end of March and pencilled in provisionally for June.

That was "subject to a review of the situation" amid uncertainty over how the pandemic will develop and whether many European countries currently in lockdown will be able to return to some kind of normality.

However, UEFA has also stated a determination to finish all domestic and club competitions by June 30.

While that currently looks ambitious at the very least, clearing the international fixtures from the same month does buy some more time as they aim to complete the Champions League and Europa League competitions as well as domestic leagues.

Carrying the season on beyond that date runs the risk of clubs losing their out-of-contract players before matches have been completed, unless a solution can be found.

The impact of the pandemic on Europe has already forced UEFA to put Euro 2020 back 12 months.

UEFA have made a move towards clearing the decks for the return of club football by announcing on Wednesday that all international matches that had been pushed back to June have now been postponed until further notice.

UEFA have made a move towards clearing the decks for the return of club football by announcing on Wednesday that all international matches that had been pushed back to June have now been postponed until further notice. "This includes the play-off matches for UEFA EURO 2020 and qualifying matches for UEFA Women's EURO 2021," said European football's governing body in a statement. "All other UEFA competition matches, including the centralised international friendly matches, remain postponed until further notice." The decision followed a videoconference with Europe's 55 member federations as part of discussions on how to adapt the fixture calendar in the face of the ongoing coronavirus crisis. The play-off semi-finals and finals that are supposed to decide the last four qualifying berths for the next European Championship were initially postponed at the end of March and pencilled in provisionally for June. That was "subject to a review of the situation" amid uncertainty over how the pandemic will develop and whether many European countries currently in lockdown will be able to return to some kind of normality. However, UEFA has also stated a determination to finish all domestic and club competitions by June 30. While that currently looks ambitious at the very least, clearing the international fixtures from the same month does buy some more time as they aim to complete the Champions League and Europa League competitions as well as domestic leagues. Carrying the season on beyond that date runs the risk of clubs losing their out-of-contract players before matches have been completed, unless a solution can be found. The impact of the pandemic on Europe has already forced UEFA to put Euro 2020 back 12 months.

UEFA postpone all international matches scheduled for June

FIFA says it has a "duty" to use its vast financial reserves to assist a football industry ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic wiping out games and creating unexpected economic hardship in the world's biggest sport.

The spread of COVID-19 has impacted the wealthiest clubs, with Barcelona and Juventus players taking wage cuts; those in smaller countries, with Slovakian champion Zilina entering bankruptcy; and national football federations, with Uruguay furloughing hundreds of staff.

Having amassed reserves it last reported at $2.745 billion, FIFA has the resources to give much-needed financial help to the game at many levels. Now the organization has provided more details around the need agreed two weeks ago by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his vice presidents to explore a 'support fund'&nbsp;for the sport.

"FIFA is in a strong financial situation and it's our duty to do the utmost to help them in their hour of need," world football's governing body said in a statement to The Associated Press on Tuesday.

"FIFA is working on possibilities to provide assistance to the football community around the world after making a comprehensive assessment of the financial impact this pandemic will have on football."

FIFA is exploring the mechanism to provide the financial lifeline to the football industry with the six regional confederations and member associations to ensure there is an announcement 'in the near future.'

The football community around the world is experiencing, to a greater or lesser extent, serious financial problems on account of the coronavirus outbreak,"&nbsp;FIFA said.

"This threatens to disrupt and impair the ability of FIFA's member associations and other football organizations such as leagues and clubs to develop, finance and run football activities at all levels of the game, including professional, non-professional, youth and grassroots.

"It is foreseen that in many parts of the world a considerable number of persons involved in football including both men and women players will be left in extremely difficult economic conditions."

FIFA already operates a 'Forward'&nbsp;development program to redistribute its wealth to member associations. In the 2015-18 cycle, investment dedicated to the scheme was $1.079 billion, of which $832 million had been approved and committed to member associations, confederations or regions, according to the last published financial results.

FIFA says it has a "duty" to use its vast financial reserves to assist a football industry ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic wiping out games and creating unexpected economic hardship in the world's biggest sport.

FIFA says it has a "duty" to use its vast financial reserves to assist a football industry ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic wiping out games and creating unexpected economic hardship in the world's biggest sport. The spread of COVID-19 has impacted the wealthiest clubs, with Barcelona and Juventus players taking wage cuts; those in smaller countries, with Slovakian champion Zilina entering bankruptcy; and national football federations, with Uruguay furloughing hundreds of staff. Having amassed reserves it last reported at $2.745 billion, FIFA has the resources to give much-needed financial help to the game at many levels. Now the organization has provided more details around the need agreed two weeks ago by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his vice presidents to explore a 'support fund' for the sport. "FIFA is in a strong financial situation and it's our duty to do the utmost to help them in their hour of need," world football's governing body said in a statement to The Associated Press on Tuesday. "FIFA is working on possibilities to provide assistance to the football community around the world after making a comprehensive assessment of the financial impact this pandemic will have on football." FIFA is exploring the mechanism to provide the financial lifeline to the football industry with the six regional confederations and member associations to ensure there is an announcement 'in the near future.' The football community around the world is experiencing, to a greater or lesser extent, serious financial problems on account of the coronavirus outbreak," FIFA said. "This threatens to disrupt and impair the ability of FIFA's member associations and other football organizations such as leagues and clubs to develop, finance and run football activities at all levels of the game, including professional, non-professional, youth and grassroots. "It is foreseen that in many parts of the world a considerable number of persons involved in football including both men and women players will be left in extremely difficult economic conditions." FIFA already operates a 'Forward' development program to redistribute its wealth to member associations. In the 2015-18 cycle, investment dedicated to the scheme was $1.079 billion, of which $832 million had been approved and committed to member associations, confederations or regions, according to the last published financial results.

With $2.7B reserves, FIFA has 'duty' to aid virus-hit soccer

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola joked he will come back "fatter" from a long layoff from football as he urged supporters to follow the advice of scientists and medical professionals on Monday.

Guardiola, who donated one million euros ($1.08 million) to help buy medical supplies for the fight against the coronavirus pandemic in his native Spain last week, posted a video message as part of the English champions' "Cityzens At Home" campaign to keep fans entertained.

Football in England has been suspended until at least April 30 as part of tight restrictions on personal freedoms to try and halt the spread of COVID-19.

"We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," said Guardiola.

"You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better.

"We'll come back from this stronger, better, kinder and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe."

To try and prevent supporters' piling on the pounds, City players' favourite recipes have been posted online to promote healthy eating.

City will provide daily skills challenges and downloadable colouring sets to keep children occupied, while mindfulness classes will be provided to help deal with the mental health issues posed by long periods of social distancing.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola joked he will come back "fatter" from a long layoff from football as he urged supporters to follow the advice of scientists and medical professionals on Monday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola joked he will come back "fatter" from a long layoff from football as he urged supporters to follow the advice of scientists and medical professionals on Monday. Guardiola, who donated one million euros ($1.08 million) to help buy medical supplies for the fight against the coronavirus pandemic in his native Spain last week, posted a video message as part of the English champions' "Cityzens At Home" campaign to keep fans entertained. Football in England has been suspended until at least April 30 as part of tight restrictions on personal freedoms to try and halt the spread of COVID-19. "We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," said Guardiola. "You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. "We'll come back from this stronger, better, kinder and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe." To try and prevent supporters' piling on the pounds, City players' favourite recipes have been posted online to promote healthy eating. City will provide daily skills challenges and downloadable colouring sets to keep children occupied, while mindfulness classes will be provided to help deal with the mental health issues posed by long periods of social distancing.

Pep Guardiola watching his weight without football

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) remains hopeful of organising the FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup in November despite the COVID-19 pandemic causing cancellation and postponement of top sporting events, throwing international schedules haywire.

The optimism stems from the seven months' time that the organising committee has at its disposal to prepare for the top age-group tournament.

Everything, though, depends on world football governing body, FIFA, AIFF general secretary Kushal Das said.

"FIFA will take a call on this, they are keeping a track of all the developments and we will see how it goes," Das told PTI.

He agreed that there is quite a bit of time left for the tournament.

"Yes, there is still a lot of time left and we will wait and watch the developments in the coming time," he said.

The World Cup is scheduled to be held from November 2 to 21 with matches to be played in Navi Mumbai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar and Guwahati.

Das is aware that the European and African qualifiers for the tournament are yet to take place.

FIFA is also working with representatives of all confederations regarding dates for their respective qualifying tournaments.

The pandemic has led to either cancellation or postponement of some of the world's biggest sporting events, including the Tokyo Olympics and Euro 2020 football tournament.

Last week, FIFA said it is monitoring the developments arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic in India, while also exploring "alternative solutions".

"FIFA is currently monitoring developments regarding the coronavirus outbreak in India to decide the future of the U-17 Women's World Cup which is slated to be held in the country in November," the apex body had said.

"...FIFA is also working with the Local Organising Committee to identify any potential impact on preparations for the FIFA U-17 Women''s World Cup

India 2020, as well as finding alternative solutions to upcoming events that were planned in India in the lead up to the tournament," it added.

Sixteen teams will take part in the World Cup, of which only three have sealed their berths so far.

India has qualified as the host nation, while North Korea (winner) and Japan (runner-up) progressed from the Asian qualifiers.

The pandemic has so far claimed nearly 38,000 lives across the world while infecting over 7,84,000 people. 
In India, more than 1400 people have tested positive for the deadly virus while over 40 have died so far.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) remains hopeful of organising the FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup in November despite the COVID-19 pandemic causing cancellation and postponement of top sporting events, throwing international schedules haywire.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) remains hopeful of organising the FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup in November despite the COVID-19 pandemic causing cancellation and postponement of top sporting events, throwing international schedules haywire. The optimism stems from the seven months' time that the organising committee has at its disposal to prepare for the top age-group tournament. Everything, though, depends on world football governing body, FIFA, AIFF general secretary Kushal Das said. "FIFA will take a call on this, they are keeping a track of all the developments and we will see how it goes," Das told PTI. He agreed that there is quite a bit of time left for the tournament. "Yes, there is still a lot of time left and we will wait and watch the developments in the coming time," he said. The World Cup is scheduled to be held from November 2 to 21 with matches to be played in Navi Mumbai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar and Guwahati. Das is aware that the European and African qualifiers for the tournament are yet to take place. FIFA is also working with representatives of all confederations regarding dates for their respective qualifying tournaments. The pandemic has led to either cancellation or postponement of some of the world's biggest sporting events, including the Tokyo Olympics and Euro 2020 football tournament. Last week, FIFA said it is monitoring the developments arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic in India, while also exploring "alternative solutions". "FIFA is currently monitoring developments regarding the coronavirus outbreak in India to decide the future of the U-17 Women's World Cup which is slated to be held in the country in November," the apex body had said. "...FIFA is also working with the Local Organising Committee to identify any potential impact on preparations for the FIFA U-17 Women''s World Cup India 2020, as well as finding alternative solutions to upcoming events that were planned in India in the lead up to the tournament," it added. Sixteen teams will take part in the World Cup, of which only three have sealed their berths so far. India has qualified as the host nation, while North Korea (winner) and Japan (runner-up) progressed from the Asian qualifiers. The pandemic has so far claimed nearly 38,000 lives across the world while infecting over 7,84,000 people. In India, more than 1400 people have tested positive for the deadly virus while over 40 have died so far.

AIFF hopeful of organising FIFA women's U-17 WC in Nov despite virus worries

English football's major stakeholders will meet on Friday to discuss their options to rescue a season derailed by the coronavirus outbreak.

The Premier League campaign has been postponed until at least April 30 because of the pandemic, but the chances of a return in May look bleak.

AFP Sport takes a closer look at the various scenarios that are likely to be considered in the talks over if and how to finish the season:

<h2>Go behind closed doors</h2>

One option is for clubs to converge on a neutral location in which all remaining games are played behind closed doors, with only essential personnel and broadcasters allowed to attend.

There is believed to be growing support among clubs for this plan, with nine rounds of matches potentially in line to be staged in June and July.

Fixtures would reportedly be played in one or two locations in the Midlands and London.

That could mean players and coaches being quarantined away from their families in World Cup-style camps to avoid infection, with stadiums, hotels and training facilities undergoing a deep clean.

A radical upturn in testing for the virus in the United Kingdom over the next two months is the key to this plan for a number of reasons.

Firstly, to ease players' concerns of contracting COVID-19 while playing, but also to avoid criticism of privileged professional players being tested with mild or no symptoms if that is not available to the general public and in particular frontline workers.

If the curve of cases is not significantly flattened come the summer the optics for the Premier League to have medical officials at non-essential events would also not be good.

<h2>Play the waiting game</h2>

Given the massive impact of the virus on society in general, it is seen in some quarters as morally inappropriate for football to return too soon.

Instead of rushing back to action, waiting until the virus is completely under control before play resumes is the preferred strategy in this scenario.

With the virus reportedly set to peak in the UK in June, that could mean remaining in sporting lockdown until August or September.

Waiting would allow the current season to be completed in full, ensuring the Premier League does not have to repay an estimated £750 million ($930 million, 842 million euros) to television companies for breach of contract.

But it would have a huge knock-on effect for next season, potentially leading to a shortened schedule in 2020-21 in a bid to be ready for the delayed European Championship.

Tottenham striker Harry Kane believes the campaign should be cancelled if it cannot be finished by the end of June.

"Playing into July or August and pushing next season back, I don't see too much benefit in that," Kane said.

"Probably the limit for me is the end of June. If the season's not completed by the end of June we need to look at the options and just look forward to next season."

<h2>Cancel the season</h2>

In what would be the worst-case scenario for the Premier League, some clubs reportedly want to abandon the current season immediately.

Senior figures in English club football believe there is "no place for sport at the moment", according to a recent report in the Athletic.

FA chairman Greg Clarke reportedly told the Premier League earlier this month he does not believe the season will be completed.

Declaring the season over could trigger legal action from a host of clubs, regardless of whether or not the standings are allowed to count.

Liverpool need only two more wins to confirm their first league title since 1990 and hold a 25-point lead over Manchester City.

Cancelling the season would scupper their hopes of ending a 30-year title drought, unless it was agreed to declare them champions anyway.

Manchester United, Wolves, Sheffield United and Tottenham, all currently outside the top four, would surely claim they had been unfairly been denied a chance of Champions League qualification.

Aston Villa would be relegated along with Norwich and Bournemouth, but Dean Smith's team would point to the game in hand that would lift them above Watford to safety if they won it.

In the Championship, the current top two are Leeds and West Bromwich Albion and they would be furious if a 'null and void' ruling robbed them of a lucrative promotion.

English football's major stakeholders will meet on Friday to discuss their options to rescue a season derailed by the coronavirus outbreak. The Premier League campaign has been postponed until at least April 30 because of the pandemic, but the chances of a return in May look bleak.

English football's major stakeholders will meet on Friday to discuss their options to rescue a season derailed by the coronavirus outbreak. The Premier League campaign has been postponed until at least April 30 because of the pandemic, but the chances of a return in May look bleak. AFP Sport takes a closer look at the various scenarios that are likely to be considered in the talks over if and how to finish the season: Go behind closed doors One option is for clubs to converge on a neutral location in which all remaining games are played behind closed doors, with only essential personnel and broadcasters allowed to attend. There is believed to be growing support among clubs for this plan, with nine rounds of matches potentially in line to be staged in June and July. Fixtures would reportedly be played in one or two locations in the Midlands and London. That could mean players and coaches being quarantined away from their families in World Cup-style camps to avoid infection, with stadiums, hotels and training facilities undergoing a deep clean. A radical upturn in testing for the virus in the United Kingdom over the next two months is the key to this plan for a number of reasons. Firstly, to ease players' concerns of contracting COVID-19 while playing, but also to avoid criticism of privileged professional players being tested with mild or no symptoms if that is not available to the general public and in particular frontline workers. If the curve of cases is not significantly flattened come the summer the optics for the Premier League to have medical officials at non-essential events would also not be good. Play the waiting game Given the massive impact of the virus on society in general, it is seen in some quarters as morally inappropriate for football to return too soon. Instead of rushing back to action, waiting until the virus is completely under control before play resumes is the preferred strategy in this scenario. With the virus reportedly set to peak in the UK in June, that could mean remaining in sporting lockdown until August or September. Waiting would allow the current season to be completed in full, ensuring the Premier League does not have to repay an estimated £750 million ($930 million, 842 million euros) to television companies for breach of contract. But it would have a huge knock-on effect for next season, potentially leading to a shortened schedule in 2020-21 in a bid to be ready for the delayed European Championship. Tottenham striker Harry Kane believes the campaign should be cancelled if it cannot be finished by the end of June. "Playing into July or August and pushing next season back, I don't see too much benefit in that," Kane said. "Probably the limit for me is the end of June. If the season's not completed by the end of June we need to look at the options and just look forward to next season." Cancel the season In what would be the worst-case scenario for the Premier League, some clubs reportedly want to abandon the current season immediately. Senior figures in English club football believe there is "no place for sport at the moment", according to a recent report in the Athletic. FA chairman Greg Clarke reportedly told the Premier League earlier this month he does not believe the season will be completed. Declaring the season over could trigger legal action from a host of clubs, regardless of whether or not the standings are allowed to count. Liverpool need only two more wins to confirm their first league title since 1990 and hold a 25-point lead over Manchester City. Cancelling the season would scupper their hopes of ending a 30-year title drought, unless it was agreed to declare them champions anyway. Manchester United, Wolves, Sheffield United and Tottenham, all currently outside the top four, would surely claim they had been unfairly been denied a chance of Champions League qualification. Aston Villa would be relegated along with Norwich and Bournemouth, but Dean Smith's team would point to the game in hand that would lift them above Watford to safety if they won it. In the Championship, the current top two are Leeds and West Bromwich Albion and they would be furious if a 'null and void' ruling robbed them of a lucrative promotion.

Scenarios for a potential return of the Premier League