David Alaba tests positive for coronavirus

Real Madrid has confirmed that their new signing David Alaba has tested positive for COVID-19.

The versatile defender will now be forced to train away from the main group in what is a significant blow to Carlo Ancelotti’s pre-season preparations.

His infection could also be part of a wider Covid-19 outbreak within the club, although there is no suggestion that is the case yet.

Real Madrid still has plenty of time until their La Liga opener against Alaves on Saturday 14 August. Alaba could be available for the game once he tests negative for the virus.

Alaba signed for the Spanish club this summer after his Bayern Munich contract expired.

During his time in Germany, the Austrian made just shy of 450 appearances in all competitions.

He won a host of titles along the way.

These included two Champions League titles, 10 Bundesliga titles and several other domestic and continental honours.

He is Madrid’s second player to test positive for COVID-19 after France forward, Karim Benzema.