Moroccan defender set to take time off football to recover from heart issues

Noussair Mazroaui (R) is set for a spell on the sidelines with a heart condition caused by COVID-19 (Shutterstock)

BUNDESLIGA Moroccan defender set to take time off football to recover from heart issues

Ayoola Kelechi 14:40 - 06.01.2023

The defender suffered a bout of COVID-19 during the 2022 World Cup and now has a heart condition

Bayern Munich’s Moroccan defender Noussair Mazraoui is set for a period on the sidelines after suffering from pericarditis caused by a bout of COVID-19.

While representing Morocco at the recently concluded World Cup, Mazroui tested positive for COVID-19 and developed pericarditis (an enlargement of the outer lining of the heart) as a result of the viral illness.

The Bayern Munich defender suffered from COVID-19 during the World Cup

The 25-year-old defender participated in five of Morocco's World Cup contests but was unable to play against Portugal in the quarterfinal due to what was thought to be a muscle injury but could also have been a COVID-related illness.

The defender for Bayern Munich will now miss up to eight weeks as his heart condition improves.

Before the break, Mazraoui played 18 matches for Bayern, starting 11 times, including four of their six matches in the UEFA Champions League.

Bayern send Mazraoui their best wishes

Bayern Munich tweeted their best wishes to the defender, wishing him a speedy recovery and indicating when the problem was discovered and what caused it.

“After testing positive for COVID-19 during the World Cup, a follow-up examination in Munich has revealed that Noussair Mazraoui has been diagnosed with a mild inflammation of the pericardium.

“Wishing you all the best for a full and quick recovery, Nous! 🙏”