Skip to content

Aston Villa's Pepe Reina reveals 'real scare' in coronavirus battle

Pepe Reina in action for Aston Villa
Image: Pepe Reina has opened up on his experience of suffering from coronavirus symptoms

Pepe Reina has revealed he struggled to breathe for 25 minutes while dealing with coronavirus symptoms in what he described as a "real scare".

The Aston Villa goalkeeper - on loan from AC Milan - began self-isolating after falling ill last month.

The 37-year-old recalled the frightening moment he lacked oxygen and says he is now recovering from the virus.

"I was isolated after the first symptoms of the virus - fever, a dry cough, a headache that would never leave, a sense of fatigue," he told Corriere dello Sport.

"The only real scare was when I was missing oxygen for 25 minutes, just like my throat suddenly closed up and the air could not go through it.

"I spent the first six to eight days locked up in a room. I'm getting out of it now."

A view of locked gates outside the Etihad Stadium in Manchester. All Premier League football has been suspended in response to the Coronavirus pandemic
Image: The Premier League and EFL have told football fans there are no "quick answers" on how and when football will return after its suspension because of the coronavirus pandemic.

English football is suspended until at least April 30 and, with Villa in the Premier League relegation zone, Reina insists football should take a back seat while countries across the world fight against the deadly disease.

Also See:

"Everyone's wellbeing goes above anything else," he said. "I will be a supporter of playing when everything is in the best conditions, that everyone is safe.

"We have to be careful when talking about dates or deadlines. I understand that there are economic interests and a lot at stake, but as in any other sector.

"There's no point in playing without fans. People have to enjoy it. We feel more fulfilled with fans. Beyond that, whatever is healthier and safer will be done."

Join Sky Bet Club and track your progress towards a £5 free Bet
Join Sky Bet Club and track your progress towards a £5 free Bet

Opt in and bet £25 or more before 23:59 on Sunday. Free bets credited by 7pm on Monday.

Around Sky