How have football stars such as Paulo Dybala, Mikel Arteta and Paolo Maldini been affected by the virus?

The coronavirus pandemic has swept the world and a number of footballers have been confirmed as having contracted it, forcing leagues everywhere to a standstill.

As well-paid athletes, elite-level footballers are ostensibly in a much better position to fight off the virus, but some have reported feeling serious pain and being scared.

There are a few commonly reported symptoms, but those who are asymptomatic can also be carriers and unknowingly spread it.

Some of the main symptoms include:

  • Fever 
  • Tiredness 
  • Dry cough 
  • Loss of smell & taste
  • Aches & pains
  • Sore throat

Goal takes a look at some of the symptoms and experiences reported by footballers who contracted the coronavirus.

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    Mikel Arteta | Arsenal

    Symptoms: temperature, dry cough, chest pain

    Arteta explained: "In terms of symptoms, it was a normal virus for me. I had three or four days which were a little bit difficult, with a bit of a temperature and a dry cough, and some discomfort in my chest. That was it."

    'That's when the fear comes' – Arteta details coronavirus experience

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  • Getty Images

    Callum Hudson-Odoi | Chelsea

    Symptoms: "similar to a mild cold"

    Chelsea and England star Hudson-Odoi recovered from the virus after spending a week-long period in self-isolation. The winger reported symptoms "similar to a mild cold".

    Hudson-Odoi reveals he has recovered from coronavirus symptoms

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    Daniele Rugani | Juventus

    Symptoms: mild fever

    Rugani tested positive for the virus, but was ostensibly asymptomatic. In a message posted on his Twitter page, he said: "You will have read the news and that's why I want to reassure all those who are worrying about me, I'm fine."

    His girlfriend Michela Persico told: "Daniele recorded three mild fever lines, he was at a temperature of 37.5.

    "He asked to be checked and, the next day, the test was positive, but he already had no fever, nor did he have or had a cough or something else. So we didn't expect it. We don't have a clue how the infection happened."

    Juventus defender Rugani tests positive for coronavirus

  • Getty

    Luca Kilian | Paderborn

    Symptoms: sore throat, fever, headache

    "On March 12 I had the first of my hot flushes and a day later they were really strong. Fever and strong shivers. It was then I started being really scared for the first time," Kilian told .

    The player added: "It took four days for the fever to drop, and after that I felt better every day.

    "I'm a sportsman and in form, but I had to fight a lot against the virus. For the people who already have health issues, it could put their life in danger."

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