Soccer: German clubs resume training amid tight virus restrictions  

Berlin, April 6, 2020

Bundesliga clubs were allowed to return to team training on Monday, with some opting to train players in small groups amid strict measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Soccer, in the country, has been suspended for almost a month and the German Football League (DFL) has said the ban will remain in place for the top divisions at least until April 30.

Clubs, however, were cleared to resume training this week, with champions Bayern Munich deciding to train players in small groups to minimise the risk of infection.

“Obviously, all health guidelines are being adhered to,’’ the club said in a statement.

“The training is closed to the public.

“FC Bayern are asking fans to continue following guidelines and please do not come to the team’s training centre.’’

Germany has seen the number of infected people rise above 100,000 this weekend and nearly 1,600 have died after testing positive for the virus that has forced the country into lockdown.

Despite the training resumption the DFL made it clear last week it was not known if or when the season would resume.

The stop in play has also had major financial effects on clubs.

Two weeks ago, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen came together to create a 20 million euros (17.59 million pounds) solidarity fund to help clubs in the top two tiers.

Dortmund have also provided part of their Signal Iduna Park stadium for the treatment of suspected virus cases. (Reuters/NAN)