(Reuters) – Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has asked his players to take all the necessary precautions during Christmas celebrations with their friends and families to avoid a COVID-19 outbreak at the Premier League club.
Fellow Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur had a second match postponed this week after the league agreed to call off Sunday’s game at Brighton & Hove Albion due to a number of COVID-19 cases.
Spurs also had their Europa Conference League game against Stade Rennais called off by UEFA after the club said they had 13 positive cases – eight players and five members of staff.
Leicester City were without several players for their Europa League game at Napoli on Thursday due to COVID-19, and Guardiola said he hoped to avoid a similar situation at his side, calling on his players to be vigilant.
“They know they have to be careful, be at home as much as possible. When they go out, social distance and wear a mask. Look at the statistics, the rules from the government. It’s still there… and there are setbacks,” Guardiola said.
The Spanish manager, whose mother died due to COVID-19 last year, said leaders City cancelled plans for a Christmas party.
“You have to protect yourself, because at Christmas time there’s a tendency for more parties, going out more often,” added Guardiola, whose side take on Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.
“Everyone at home organises a party with family and kids. They’re going to do it. We’re not going to say don’t do it, but be careful. The risk is high.
“Look at what happened at Tottenham and Leicester. It can happen here as well, if we don’t pay attention. That’s a big problem for them, for their health and family, but of course, the team.”
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