Matteo Guendouzi will have to self-isolate for 10 days in Germany after contracting COVID-19.
His recent samples after captaining France Under 21 team during the international break returned positive. It means Guendouzi, who is on loan at Hertha Berlin from Arsenal will have to wait for his Bundesliga debut.
The tests were done twice and they both returned positive on Tuesday morning and Wednesday evening.
“I did the covid-19 test and unfortunately I’ve been tested positive. I feel good but I’m so disappointed to not be there this weekend ! Thanks a lot for all the positive energy and I promise to be back soon and stronger,” he tweeted.
I did the covid-19 test and unfortunately I’ve been tested positive. I feel good but I’m so disappointed to not be there this weekend ! Thanks a lot for all the positive energy and I promise to be back soon and stronger https://t.co/PIDWb3OWrl
— Matteo Guendouzi (@MatteoGuendouzi) October 15, 2020
He was in action with France U21 during their victories over Liechtenstein and Slovakia in his first matches since last month’s international break.
The Frenchman had been declared surplus to requirements at Arsenal since their 2-1 defeat to Brighton on June 20, where he was involved in a post-match altercation with Neal Maupay.
He is reportedly asymptomatic and feeling well. Guendouzi didn’t have any contact with any other Hertha Berlin players on his return, as stated by the club.
After being presented to the media on Thursday afternoon, he was in line to make his debut in the Bundesliga fixture with Stuttgart on Saturday following his Deadline Day loan move from Arsenal.
ℹ️ @MatteoGuendouzi has tested positive for Covid-19 after returning from international duty. There has been no contact with any Hertha players or staff. He is symptom-free and feeling well, but will now self-isolate for 10 days.
— Hertha Berlin (@HerthaBSC_EN) October 15, 2020
Get well soon, Mattéo! pic.twitter.com/O6nRXQL5Jd
Thomas Partey arrives Arsenal
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s new signing, Thomas Partey has arrived at the Gunners’ training ground for the first time on Tuesday after international duty. He is in line to make his debut against Manchester City this weekend.
He recently completed a £45m move from Atletico Madrid on Deadline Day. Speaking on his move to the London club, the Ghanian admitted that he must adapt quickly to the rigours of the Premier League.
“Arteta was very important [for the move. Him and (technical director) Edu told me about their plans and it was so exciting, so I had to accept it.
“It’s a great challenge. I want to experience new challenges. I’m ready to give it my all and help the club get back to where it belongs.”