
Jona, eight days ago you were playing in front of 50,000 fans at Ibrox. Now it feels like we're in a completely different time.
Definitely. The situation has changed completely. But we've got to make the best of things and try to deal with it to the best of our ability.
What's your daily routine at the moment?
It mainly consist of training sessions – I have to keep fit at the end of the day: weight training, mobility exercises. At the moment, I still go running outside. If we're not allowed to go out then I'll use a treadmill. I've got somebody with me for training to make sure I push myself to the limit and beyond – it would be too tough on my own.
What's particularly important at this time?
I'm no fan of panic as that can lead you to making wrong decisions in a situation like this. We should remain calm but be aware of the situation nevertheless. In general, we all need each other in these difficult times and we should show respect for others.
You've taken an active role and committed yourself to being a private donor to the Sepp Herberger Foundation at the DFB. How did that come about?
My thinking behind it was: I'll be the first to donate so I won't be the last. I'd like to inspire people to donate as well and play their part. At the same time, it's not at all about how much it is or just about donating money. You can also donate your time, for example by helping people with their shopping.
You live with your girlfriend and you keep in contact with members of your family via technical means. How is communication with each other at the moment?
In general, it's less about me getting infected. It's much more important to me that I don't infect anybody. I make sure I wash and disinfect my hands often. If I go for a run outside then I don't touch anything. I wouldn’t like anybody to have health problems because of me. My girlfriend is equally careful. Everybody should be alert and follow the rules.

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Bayer 04 Leverkusen have appointed Carles Martínez Novell as the new head coach. The 42-year-old Spaniard worked for FC Toulouse in the French Ligue 1 until the end of the season. Martínez finished last term in ninth place with the club from the south of France. He will take over the Werkself on 1 July 2026 and has signed a contract to 30 June 2028. Martínez, whose contract with Toulouse expires at the end of the month, succeeds Kasper Hjulmand at Leverkusen, who is leaving the club after one season.
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Welcome to Leverkusen, Carles Martínez Novell. Bayer 04 have appointed the 42-year-old Spaniard as the new head coach on a contract to 2028. Martínez most recently worked for FC Toulouse in the French Ligue 1 until the end of the season. He previously spent four years at Barcelona's legendary academy La Masia in his home city. Bayer04.de introduces Martínez in more detail.
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