Philadelphia player becomes 1st in MLS to test positive for COVID-19

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An unnamed Philadelphia Union player has tested positive for COVID-19, the club announced Wednesday.

This is the first confirmed case of a player contracting COVID-19 in Major League Soccer. The Seattle Sounders and New York City FC confirmed in March that staff members had tested positive, but there were no cases involving first-team players.

"The Union medical staff has been working directly with Crozer-Keystone Health System medical officials to treat the player who experienced mild symptoms and is feeling well and in good spirits," the club said. "The player is observing appropriate isolation protocols. No other cases or symptoms within Philadelphia Union soccer operations have been identified at this time."

No players or members of the technical staff have been present at the club's training facility or stadium, Subaru Park, since March 12.

After consultation with medical officials and infectious disease specialists, the team said the positive case "does not present a risk to our fans, our most recent opponent, LAFC, or any of the other Union players, staff, or personnel."