The three internationals missed their country’s first group match at the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Cameroon, because they had tested positive for the corona virus. It was intended that Aubameyang, Meyé and Lemina would return to the selection for the second group match against Ghana. According to the CAF, however, medical examinations would have revealed heart defects in the Gabonese football players.
Aubameyang is the most famous of the three. The 32-year-old striker had to give up his captaincy at Arsenal a few weeks ago, because he had not failed to train for the first time. The Gabonese, who previously played for Borussia Dortmund, is now linked with a winter transfer to Juventus.
Earlier on Friday, Bayern Munich announced that Alphonso Davies (21) had an inflamed heart muscle. The Canadian fullback was recently infected with the corona virus. Skater Kjeld Nuis (32) had to deal with an inflamed pericardium last year, shortly after he had been vaccinated. The two-time Olympic champion even ended up in hospital.
Arsenal request a postponement
Arsenal have asked whether Sunday’s city derby against Tottenham Hotspur can be postponed. The ‘Gunners’ say they miss many players due to corona, injuries and the Africa Cup. The decision will be made on Saturday. It is known that midfielder Martin Ødegaard has tested positive for the corona virus. In addition to Aubameyang, Cédric Soares, Bukayo Saka and Calum Chambers are also missing due to injuries. Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny and Nicolas Pépé play with their country at the Africa Cup. Many games have been postponed in the Premier League this season. On Friday, Burnley – Leicester City also crossed a line due to injuries and infections at the home team. That game was scheduled for Saturday.
View the results, standings and program in the Premier League here
Bundesliga: Haaland and Meunier shoot Dortmund to a big win over Freiburg
In Germany, thanks to hits from Erling Haaland and Thomas Meunier, Borussia Dortmund easily won against number 4 SC Freiburg: 5-1. Haaland and Meunier each scored twice. The team of coach Marco Rose increased the pressure on leader Bayern Munich, which is at the top of the Bundesliga with three points.
The first two goals were from the Belgian Meunier. The defender headed in twice from a corner in the first half hour. Haaland made the 3-0 in injury time of the first half. After the break, the 21-year-old Norwegian again found the net, just like Freiburg midfielder Ermedin Demirovic and Dortmund midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud. International Donyell Malen played the entire match for the home team.
View the results, position and program in the Bundesliga here