Legendary Italian footballer Gianfranco Zola has slammed the United Kingdom’s handling of Coronavirus compared to how it is being handled in Italy.
Zola, who now lives in London, started an interview with Milan based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, by calling for people to start taking responsibility and start taking the disease seriously.
“Coronavirus is a sneaky, dark evil, it can strike us without us even realising it. The danger of contagion is real for anyone. Now, it’s time for responsibility both on an individual and collective level. Yet, it seems to me that in these parts they are underestimating the situation.”
He then went on to urge people to follow what the government are telling them to do and not just ignore them and carry on as normal.
“I have no means and competence to give indications but I am sure that the provisions of the authorities must be strictly followed. Here in London I see pubs, restaurants and shops still open. The city centres and shopping streets are crowded, it seems normal yet we are living in one of the most difficult times in the post-war period.”
Zola, who represented the likes of Napoli, Parma and Chelsea during his playing career, then went on to discuss the current situation in Italy.
“In Italy I have read and seen that things have been done well and at the right time. I see that the situation in the north of the country is very serious. Serious measures are needed and they will take time to give results.
“Experts say that Coronavirus attacks differently, therefore we must be diligent. We must keep going.”
He then went on to discuss this Summer’s European Championship’s which look set to be postponed due to the extraordinary circumstances.
“It is difficult to make plans given what scientists say about the incubation and spread of the virus, it is difficult to keep plans. On Tuesday UEFA will give a first response.”
Zola’s last position that he held in football was assistant manager to current Juventus manager Maurizio Sarri, when he was at Chelsea. In a 21 year playing career, Zola made 664 appearances across all competitions, in which he scored 200 goals.