FC Dallas one of three MLS clubs with players who have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of July 8 MLS is Back kickoff in Orlando
By OfficialFloridaFC
Soccer is not immune from the COVID-19 pandemic.
That became apparent on Monday afternoon when FC Dallas was withdrawn from the MLS is Back Tournament after 10 members of its traveling party were tested positive for the virus, less than a week before the club was to play its first match in Orlando.
FC Dallas remains quarantined in Orlando. The club is unable to play and currently unable to return to Texas. Manager, and Hialeah native, Luchi Gonzalez has concerns that are beyond the game.
“[Soccer] is not my priority, the priority is family, the players, their recovery and their health — that is No. 1 and [that is] every inch of my body and every thought in my mind right now,” Gonzalez said. “But with time, the game is going to come back as the priority for this club and this team.”
In all, 10 players and one member of the technical staff have tested positive for COVID-19.
“Given the impact of the number of positive tests on the club’s ability to train and play competitive matches, we have made the decision to withdraw FC Dallas from the MLS is Back Tournament,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber in a July 6 statement. “The health of everyone involved in our return to play has always been our top priority, and we will continue to make decisions consistent with that priority.”
Elsewhere in the league, five Nashville SC players have tested positive for COVID-19. Though the expansion team has not been withdrawn from MLS is Back, its first match in Group A against the Chicago Fire was postponed.
Major League Soccer announced four other Nashville SC players are awaiting results from their test. The Tennessean reported on Monday that Nashville SC has not conducted a workout or team activity since June 30.
The MLS is Back Tournament kicks off on July 8 with Florida foes Inter Miami and Orlando City meeting for the first time.
