Paris Saint-Germain confirmed on Sunday that Lionel Messi has tested positive for Covid-19.
Three other players are also infected: defender Juan Bernat, goalkeeper Sergio Rico and midfielder Nathan Bitumazala, the club announced.
“The players are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol,” PSG said through a statement.
Messi spent Christmas in his native Argentina with his family. He will remain there until he tests negative, PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino said during a press conference.
Leo Messi joined PSG from Barcelona on a free transfer in August. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner scored six goals in 16 outings for the Paris club. Messi only netted once in the French Ligue 1 this season, but hopes to turn stats in his favor in 2022. The 34-year-old has one year and a half left in his deal with PSG. He last featured for PSG in the 1-1 draw against Lorient on 22 Dec. The Ligue 1 leaders kick off the new year action on Monday, when they meet fourth-tier Vannes FC in the French Cup.
With Neymar also out until February with injury, Mauricio Pochettino will only have Kylian Mbappe at his disposal for the match against Vannes.
PSG is at -1,660 to win in normal time, with Vannes at +2,400. A bet on a draw followed by extra-time brings +1,100. Vannes leading or drawing at half-time is at +200, with the same bet at the end of the 90 minutes at +800.