Marinakis, Nottingham Forest owner, contracts coronavirus

Evangelos Marinakis, Nottingham Forest FC majority owner, says he has tested positive to coronavirus.

In a statement issued on Tuesday via his Instagram page, the Greek businessman said “the recent virus has visited me”.

He added that he’s now following the advice of doctors regarding self-isolation after contracting the killer disease.

The 52-year-old, who was present during Forest’s 3-0 defeat to Millwall four days ago wrote: “The recent virus has “visited” me and I felt obliged to let the public know.

“I feel good as I take all the necessary measures and I discipline to the doctors instructions. I strongly advise all my fellow citizens to do the same. I wish all a quick recovery.”

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Marinakis is also the owner of Greece’s Olympiacos football club, and was present at the Emirates where his side dumped Arsenal out of the round of 32 in the Europa league.

“Mr Marinakis was diagnosed after showing the first symptoms on his return to Greece,” said Forest in a press statement.

“During his stay in Nottingham he did not show any symptoms of the virus.

“The club are seeking advice from medical professionals and the relevant governing bodies to ensure the correct measures are taken.”

Arsenal also issued a press statement.

“Our home match with Olympiacos in the Europa League was played on Thursday 27th February and none of our staff who came into contact with Mr Marinakis on that matchday have reported any symptoms since,” the club wrote.

“We continue to follow strict protocols with regard to Coronavirus. We’re following the Government health guidelines and have additional procedures in place to protect our players and staff.

“This has included regular deep cleaning of areas used by players at Emirates Stadium and our training centre.”

The entire Olympiacos squad and backroom staff were sent to the hospital for coronavirus tests on Tuesday, in light of the new development.

UEFA has also confirmed that the Europa League last-16 first leg between Olympiacos and Wolves will take place behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outbreak

Several Champions League fixtures will follow the same process, with Chelsea’s match against Bayern Munich next week among them.