Karim Benzema: Real Madrid striker tests positive for coronavirus

AFP via Getty Images

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has tested positive for coronavirus, the Spanish club have confirmed.

The France international - who was recalled to his national side after a near six-year absence for Euro 2020 this summer - will sit out pre-season training for now having entered isolation.

In a short statement on their official website issued on Friday morning, Madrid said: "Real Madrid C.F. confirm that our player Karim Benzema has tested positive for Covid-19."

Benzema will now have to self-isolate for a period of time away from his team-mates as new manager Carlo Ancelotti prepares for the new season.

Clubs across Europe have seen their preparations for the new campaign hit due to the virus. Arsenal cancelled a pre-season trip to Florida due to an outbreak in their group earlier this week.

On Thursday night, Chelsea cancelled a pre-season friendly in Ireland due to a "possible positive" in their travelling party.

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