Ex-Manchester United Star, Marouane Fellaini Becomes First Coronavirus Victim In Chinese League

Former Manchester United star, Marouane Fellaini has tested positive for the coronavirus, becoming the first known case in the Chinese Super League (CSL).

The 32-year-old currently plays in the CSL for Shandong Luneng and he tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday.

Fellaini undertook a routine screening on arrival at the city of Jinan. He is now in isolation at Jinan hospital, which specialises in infectious diseases.

According to Shandong Luneng, the Belgium midfielder is showing no symptoms of the coronavirus, such as a fever or cough. He is currently spending 14 days in quarantine, as are all people he had contact with.

Fellaini posted a picture of himself on Twitter posing with thumbs up on Sunday, saying:

“Dear friends, I have been tested for coronavirus and my test result is positive. Thanks to the fans, medical staff and the club for their care and attention. I will follow the treatment and hope to return to the game as soon as possible. Please everyone stay safe.”

Fellaini, who spent 11 years playing in England, representing both Everton and United, is reportedly the only Chinese Super League player to have contracted the illness.

A statement on Fellaini from Shandong Luneng reads:

“The club will do its best to protect everyone while helping the treatment and rehabilitation of its player. We wish him a quick recovery.

“Fellaini expressed his gratitude to his concerned fans and friends through the club. He believes he will get well soon and return stronger.”

The Chinese Super League is currently suspended due to the pandemic, as well as other leagues around the world. There had been hope, however, that is would resume in the next month following the recent dramatic reduction in reported new Covid-19 cases in China.