NYCFC employee tests positive for coronavirus

New York City FC has reported in a statement released by the club that a member of its sporting department has tested positive for coronavirus.

The unidentified individual is said by the club to be feeling well after showcasing mild symptoms and is following the isolation protocols. NYCFC said they are working with infectious disease specialists along with consulting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the New York State Department of Health, Major League Soccer and other opponents after the positive test was revealed.

“The health and safety of NYCFC players, coaches, staff and fans continues to be the Club’s top priority,” NYCFC said in the statement. “The Club is committed to the health practices outlined by the CDC and encourages all NYCFC fans and New Yorkers to do the same.”

There has not been a recorded positive test of a MLS player following the league’s announcement of a 30-day suspension to its season last week. But in following the CDC’s request that events involving more than 50 people not be held for eight weeks, MLS announced Thursday that the league is seeking to start the season on May 10.

The league is also in talks to push the conclusion of the playoffs and the MLS Cup final to December. MLS had previously held their championship game in December until a year ago when playoff format changes moved up the final to November. United Soccer League also said it is suspending the USL Championship and USL League One until May 10.