Lionel Messi returns positive for COVID-19

Star Argentina and PSG striker Lionel Messi has tested positive for COVID-19, PSG confirmed on Sunday. Messi was among the four players who have confirmed positive results. The other players who have returned positive results are Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala. PSG confirmed that all players are in isolation and under strict supervision.

PSG took to Twitter to reveal the news. "Tests carried out during the winter break and before the resumption of training revealed 4 positive cases for Covid-19 among the players and 1 positive case among the staff. The people concerned are subject to the Covid protocols," read a statement from PSG.

Tests carried out during the winter break and before the resumption of training revealed 4 positive cases for Covid-19 among the players and 1 positive case among the staff. The people concerned are subject to the Covid protocols.

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) January 2, 2022

While the source of Messi's infection is not yet known, the striker made full use of the winter break and attended several functions. A video of him singing and dancing in a concert in Argentina is also doing rounds. Many speculate that the veteran might have contracted the virus during the break.

Messi was last seen in action during the 1-1 draw against FC Lorient on December 22. PSG are set to lock horns with fourth-tier club Vannes OC in the French Cup on Monday.

Meanwhile, France is gasping for breath due to COVID-19. The country reported more than 200,000 cases for the fourth day in a row and joined USA, Brazil, India, Britain and Russia in the list of countries with more than 10 million COVID infections.