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'For the tranquility of Diego and his family': At-risk Argentina legend Maradona tested for Covid-19 after positive contact

5-10-2020 < RT 25 398 words
 

Gimnasia La Plata manager Diego Maradona will be tested for COVID-19 on Monday as a precaution after club striker Nicolas Contin tested positive for the virus.


The Argentina legend was in the forward’s proximity in last Wednesday’s friendly with San Lorenzo.


While there was reportedly minimal contact between the two and Maradona - who has not shown symptoms - wore protective gear, he is to be tested.


In accordance with provisions made by Maradona’s personal physician, sports journalist Sebastian Sanchi said of the case: “The contact that Diego had with the striker was outdoors, with a correctly placed chinstrap and he was never in direct contact with Contín for a period greater than 15 minutes.


“With this description, Diego is not considered a suspected case, because he does not present any symptoms and because he is not considered close contact, according to the definition of the Ministry of Health of the Nation. 


“In the same way, for the tranquility of Diego and his family, on Monday we will perform the swab.”


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In a statement, Gimnasia said Contin was tested last Thursday after developing symptoms and the results came back positive the following day. However, he is said to be in “good health” and is in isolation while his recovery is monitored.


Contin’s teammate Eric Ramirez is also in isolation after sharing a car with him to the stadium on Wednesday.


In August, Maradona was advised to stay away from Gimnasia training for three weeks by club doctor Pablo Del Compare, as he is considered to be especially at-risk due to his age, weight, high blood pressure and having recently undergone an operation.


The 59-year-old underwent surgery in January last year after suffering internal bleeding caused by a hernia.


He has also had numerous health issues over the years brought on by substance and alcohol abuse, including two gastric bypass operations and a stint in hospital with severe heart and respiratory problems.


It’s clear from the protective face shield he and his seven-year-old son Diego Fernando wore during the San Lorenzo friendly that the Argentina legend is taking the coronavirus seriously.



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