Arsenal’s pre-season plans in chaos after US tour falls victim to Covid

Arsenal have reportedly cancelled their pre-season tour to the US after a small number of positive Covid-19 cases at the club.

They were set to travel this week to participate in the Florida Cup alongside Everton, Serie A champions Internazionale and the Colombian club Millonarios. The individuals who tested positive are believed to be asymptomatic.

A statement from tournament organisers said: “We are aware of the media reports this afternoon. We remain in discussions with all four clubs with the intent to deliver a safe and successful Florida Cup for both participants and fans.”

Arsenal were not immediately available to comment. The London side were scheduled to take on Inter on Sunday and potentially face the winner of Everton’s game against Millonarios on 28 July.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal team started their pre-season preparations in Scotland and played two games, losing 2-1 to Hibernian and drawing 2-2 with Rangers. Arsenal finished eighth in the Premier League last term, and begin their 2021-22 campaign at promoted Brentford on 13 August.