Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel has tested positive for Covid-19, the English Premier League team has announced today.
The latest development means Tuchel will miss the early stages of Fifa Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia.
Tuchel will now spend time in self-isolation and may rejoin the Blues next week in Abu Dhabi.
Chelsea will leave for the Club World Cup after Saturday afternoon’s FA Cup clash with Plymouth Argyle.
Chelsea assistant coach Arno Michels will be in charge of the team and says there is no cause for concern.
“He was fully in charge throughout the whole week with the preparation for the game so he knows exactly what’s going on today,” he told Chelsea website.
“We will stay in touch with him during the game as well so it’s all good.”
Al Ahly from Egypt are representing Africa at the tournament by virtue of being CAF Champions League kings.
Club World Cup 22 fixtures:
Thursday February 3, 2022
Al Jazira vs AS Pirae
Saturday February 5, 2022
Al Ahly v Monterrey
Saturday February 6, 2022
Al Hilal vs Game 1 winners
Tuesday February 8, 2022
Palmeiras vs Game 2 winners
Wednesday February 9, 2022
Game 3 winners vs Chelsea
Saturday February 12, 2022
Third/fourth place play-off
Final – 4.30pm GMT