There is no doubting coronavirus has had a significant impact on almost all global citizens as the pandemic spreads around the world.
However, German-based Australian footballer Brandon Borrello wasn’t truly ready for how the viral outbreak would impact so many so quickly.
Like many people across the globe, including professional footballers, day-to-day life suddenly looks drastically different as a result of the pandemic.
“I never thought [coronavirus] would amount to what it has come to, but I’m glad people are now taking it seriously and staying at home,” Borello told pfa.net.au.
“I didn’t really want to do too much research on it and scare myself, but I know the symptoms and the consequences, of course, so I’m staying at home to do everything I can to avoid it.
The SC Freiburg and Socceroos attacker had been keeping his eye on the news of the virus, but is now aware of how important following health and government advice is, while his Bundesliga campaign has been curtailed by the spread of COVID-19.
The Bundesliga was suspended on March 14, with the 24-year-old Borrello having featured in seven games in the German top flight prior to the postponement.
“I never would’ve thought that it would affect not only football but every sport across the world. However, I’m glad all the leagues are coming to a stop now and everyone is doing their part to stay at home, listen to the guidelines or the rules of their respective countries.”
Effectively in lockdown in Freiburg, Borrello is coming to terms with the current ‘new normal’ in Germany, which has implemented tighter government restrictions to prevent further spread. As of Monday 30 March, there were 62,435 cases in Germany and 541 deaths.
“We’re experiencing a lock down where only banks and grocery shops are open. You’re allowed outside with only a maximum of two people. Most public places and all restaurants and shopping centres are closed down, I’m lucky that we have nice weather where I can train outside on the balcony but it’s a hard time for everyone at the moment.”
With the Bundesliga’s administration aiming to restart the league, Borrello is required to maintain fitness and has been finding different ways to keep moving and keep motivated.
But there is no doubt he’s still missing the action on the pitch.
“At the moment to keep fit we have a program that we have to follow from the club. I’m allowed to go outside and complete my running and all the gym stuff we have to do I can do at home so I’m lucky in that sense.
“The only thing I’m missing is a football pitch to get back to that actual football rhythm. But in this time I’ll really focus on my fitness, trying to keep my best possible shape that I can before we go back.”
Borrello, who made his debut for the Socceroos in June last year, said maintaining a positive atttitute at this time was vital.
“Mentally I’ve stayed positive. The federation and leagues are working tirelessly to get football back up and running I think you have to keep calm in this time.
“There are a lot of people without work due to coronavirus at the moment so it puts things into perspective. But I’m staying relatively positive and hanging for the chance to get back on the pitch.”
The break from football has also given Borello an opportunity to reflect and consider what everyone, particularly professional footballers, can do to maintain their health and wellbeing at this uncertain time.
“My advice would be to be creative; don’t sit for too long. Look at renting fitness equipment like a treadmill or bike for the next month to keep fit.
“Annoy your neighbours and juggle and dribble through the house constantly. Also find a rhythm to your day a bit of structure will help you in this time.
“It’s my first time in this situation so I know for me what’s working at the moment. However, the most important thing is staying at home and only going out when you have to – and follow the rules of quarantine. It’s a hard time for all but we’ll get through this.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the PFA has established a Player Development and Information Hub that will ensure professional footballers have access to vital support programs and services no matter where you are around the world and no matter the circumstances.
The content that the PFA has developed focuses on the following:
