It seems that the worldwide outbreak of the Coronavirus has decimated the world game. Most of the European leagues have decided to suspend their seasons.
The Spanish, French and Italian top-flights have all been suspended, while the German Bundesliga is set to take place behind closed doors this weekend.
The English Premier League could well also suspend top-flight action after Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi both tested positive for the virus. The Premier League are set to hold an emergency meeting later today, at which it is speculated that the English top-flight will also be suspended.
Club statement: COVID-19— Arsenal (@Arsenal) March 12, 2020
Club statement: COVID-19
The suspensions look to be sensible considering the virus has spread throughout the world at a speedy rate. The World Health Organisation has now updated the situation to ‘Pandemic’ and reports suggest some countries are not yet at their peak with the virus.
In times like these football takes a back seat when it comes to peoples lives and welfare. With so many personnel involved in football already affected it was unsurprising that countries and football organisations throughout the world decided to call a temporary halt to their seasons.
There has been speculation that the suspensions of club football are likely to lead to Euro 2020 being postponed until 2021. Once again, as football fans, it would be a disappointing decision. However, people’s well-being must be paramount and national teams travelling through Europe for the tournament does not currently seem a good idea, with meetings of large groups of people a big issue.
This virus is far bigger than just football and is likely to affect millions of people worldwide. With that in mind, football pales into insignificance. The hope is that in a few months the big European seasons will reach their conclusion. If not, then the organisations in charge of the leagues will have some big decisions to make.