Benzema tests positive for virus, delays start with Madrid

AP , Friday 23 Jul 2021

Real Madrid did not elaborate on the France forward's condition in a short statement.

File photo taken on April 3, 2021 Real Madrid
File photo taken on April 3, 2021 Real Madrid's French forward Karim Benzema reacts during the Spanish League football match between Real Madrid CF and SD Eibar at the Alfredo di Stefano stadium in Valdebebas on the outskirts of Madrid. AFP

Striker Karim Benzema tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of preseason training, Real Madrid said Friday.

The club did not elaborate on the France forward's condition in a short statement.

Benzema had been expected to return to Madrid on Friday to start training, but due to the positive test result he will stay in Lyon, France, while infected.

The 33-year-old Benzema will have to remain in quarantine for 10 days. He hasn't played since France was eliminated from the European Championship on June 28.

Madrid plays its first match of the season at Alaves on Aug. 14.

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