How have football stars such as Paulo Dybala, Mikel Arteta and Paolo Maldini been affected by the virus?

The coronavirus pandemic has swept the world and a number of footballers have been confirmed as having contracted it, forcing leagues everywhere to a standstill.

As well-paid athletes, elite-level footballers are ostensibly in a much better position to fight off the virus, but some have reported feeling serious pain and being scared.

There are a few commonly reported symptoms, but those who are asymptomatic can also be carriers and unknowingly spread it.

Some of the main symptoms include:

Fever Tiredness Dry cough Loss of smell & tasteAches & painsSore throat

Goal takes a look at some of the symptoms and experiences reported by footballers who contracted the coronavirus.

Getty ImagesMikel Arteta | Arsenal

Symptoms: temperature, dry cough, chest pain

Arteta explained: "In terms of symptoms, it was a normal virus for me. I had three or four days which were a little bit difficult, with a bit of a temperature and a dry cough, and some discomfort in my chest. That was it."

'That's when the fear comes' – Arteta details coronavirus experience

AdvertisementGetty ImagesCallum Hudson-Odoi | Chelsea

Symptoms: "similar to a mild cold"

Chelsea and England star Hudson-Odoi recovered from the virus after spending a week-long period in self-isolation. The winger reported symptoms "similar to a mild cold".

Hudson-Odoi reveals he has recovered from coronavirus symptoms

Getty ImagesDaniele Rugani | Juventus

Symptoms: mild fever

Rugani tested positive for the virus, but was ostensibly asymptomatic. In a message posted on his Twitter page, he said: "You will have read the news and that's why I want to reassure all those who are worrying about me, I'm fine."

His girlfriend Michela Persico told: "Daniele recorded three mild fever lines, he was at a temperature of 37.5.

"He asked to be checked and, the next day, the test was positive, but he already had no fever, nor did he have or had a cough or something else. So we didn't expect it. We don't have a clue how the infection happened."

Juventus defender Rugani tests positive for coronavirus

GettyLuca Kilian | Paderborn

Symptoms: sore throat, fever, headache

"On March 12 I had the first of my hot flushes and a day later they were really strong. Fever and strong shivers. It was then I started being really scared for the first time," Kilian told .

The player added: "It took four days for the fever to drop, and after that I felt better every day.

"I'm a sportsman and in form, but I had to fight a lot against the virus. For the people who already have health issues, it could put their life in danger."