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With almost all football postponed indefinitely because of the coronavirus pandemic, star players 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 will be 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.
1. David Beckham
With his hair starting to become unruly and a visit to the barber off the cards, Beckham has taken the plunge and given himself the “isolation cut.”
The Inter Miami part-owner appeared on Instagram with a freshly shaven head, instantly bringing memories of the year 2000 rushing back.
When Becks emerged with a cropped head in 2000, he was three years into a lucrative, four-year sponsorship deal with Brylcreem, said to be worth £1 million per year.
Asked at the time whether her husband had jeopardised that deal, his wife, Victoria, told the press: “I would go crazy if he turned down £4m. I’d have ripped his hair out myself!”
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Not to be outdone, Ronaldo didn’t quite go as far as Beckham with his haircut, but he topped up a short back-and-sides with a quick home trim.
Stay home and keep stylish 💇🏽♂️👩❤️💋👨 #stayhomestaysafe pic.twitter.com/SkPiUwzCxn
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) April 4, 2020
3. Paul Pogba
Manchester United midfielder Pogba is occupying his time trying to come up with new freestyle combos at the “PP Arena” training room he set up at home.
Pogba displayed yet more lightning footwork as he pulled off a series of flicks, any one of which would leave us nursing sore hamstrings.
Another day, another @paulpogba combo 😍 pic.twitter.com/Zlcwzp4Ffu
— 433 (@433) April 4, 2020
4. Ederson
The Man City goalkeeper recorded a special message for Gabriel Jesus, wishing his teammate a happy birthday from the confines of his house in Brazil.
Jesus turned 23 on Friday, though we dare say his party is going to have to be delayed for a while.
So much birthday love from @edersonmoraes93 for @gabrieljesus33 🥰
🔵 #ManCity pic.twitter.com/qFKEEzfgGp
— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 3, 2020
5. John Terry
The former Chelsea captain also was doling out the birthday wishes, this time to his older brother — doing so with a brilliant throwback from the family photo album.
A few days ago, Kyle Walker deleted Silva from the Man City players’ group chat after being dared to do so during an interview with Soccer AM (from 6:30 mark).
Skip forward and the Portuguese midfielder was able to exact his ruthless revenge.
@kylewalker2 pic.twitter.com/MY4WSWetH6
— Bernardo Silva (@BernardoCSilva) April 3, 2020
7. Dani Alves
Taking a break from his intense home workout routine, Brazil legend Alves shared a little quality time with his pet dog.
“It’s time to get closer to those you love and will make a difference in your life!” the Sao Paulo defender wrote.
With a move to MLS reported to be in the pipeline once his ban for breaking betting rules ends in June, Sturridge appears to be making preparations for life in the United States.
Indeed, the former Liverpool striker tested his grasp of American culture by partaking in a quiz on Instagram.
With his new pet liger cub presumably still sleeping in the other room, Lyon winger Depay woke up early to tuck into his favourite breakfast — dry pancakes and sliced banana.