With almost all football postponed indefinitely because of the coronavirus pandemic, star players and clubs have found themselves at a loose end.
With many training grounds off-limits, clubs have sent footballers home, where they’re adhering to an isolation period for the next few weeks. How are they passing the time?
ESPN is keeping a daily eye on what the world’s best are up to, as well as how clubs are keeping busy by battling in online competitions against each other.
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Hastings United
Hastings United were faced with the unenviable task of evicting a swarm of unwanted intruders from their ground before starting work relaying their pitch.
The non-league club had to remove a large swarm of bees that had taken up residence in their centre circle using nothing but the bravery of their ground staff and a wheelie bin.
BUZZING to announce our new signing to haSTINGS!
The crowd swarmed to The Pilot Field as we continue our pitch works!
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Video by @SimonRudkins pic.twitter.com/JKj1Zk492B
— Hastings United FC (@hastingsufc) May 9, 2020
Not what I was expecting to be doing this morning trying to collect a swarm of bees. pic.twitter.com/2BNBkux0Md
— Simon Rudkins (@SimonRudkins) May 9, 2020
Thankfully, groundsman Simon Rudkin was able to report on a job well done without suffering a single sting.
Project Bee complete at Hastings with no stings ? hope they enjoy their new home pic.twitter.com/Od43VMpLHj
— Simon Rudkins (@SimonRudkins) May 9, 2020
Certainly living up to their name of Ha-STINGS United!
Lionel Messi celebrated being able to return to training at Barcelona (while still observing social distancing requirements) with an action shot.
After individual sessions went ahead on Friday and Saturday, Barca took time to herald the big man’s return after 56 long days apart.
#FridayFeeling by ? pic.twitter.com/hiCXWheWA6
— FC Barcelona (from ?) (@FCBarcelona) May 8, 2020
Carles Puyol
Carles Puyol wished his old friend Luis Enrique a happy 50th birthday by sharing a throwback photo of when the Barca pair used to “play like superheroes.”
Marcus Rashford managed to get a good photo of his trophy cabinet without canine interference.
Meanwhile, his Manchester United teammate Jesse Lingard went out of his way to wish his followers a “productive” weekend.
Real Betis legend Joaquin gave us all an insight into what his return to work was really like.
David Luiz tucked away a sweet, sweet volley as his backyard training sessions continued.
Continuing his theme for the week, Dani Alves enjoyed a little dance with his cheeky new simian friend.
