SHANGHAI, March 13 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai Shenhua striker Stephan El Shaarawy has called on his native Italy to draw on China's experience in the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak.
"Italy can learn from China's experience on fighting against the epidemic," El Shaarawy wrote on his Instagram account.
In January, when Shenhua was training in south China's Hainan Province, the epidemic began to spread rapidly in Wuhan. First proposed by general manager Zhou Jun and veteran Cao Yunding, Shenhua's players and staff including El Shaarawy made donations.
As China's domestic epidemic situation has shown a positive trend, the coronavirus is becoming more of a global issue with Italy being one of the worst hit countries. The number of infections in Italy reached 12,839 by Thursday, and death toll exceeded 1,000.
In a photo Shaarawy posted on Instagram, the map of Italy was adapted to a picture of two clasped hands. "I am far away from my motherland now, but I will always keep a close eye on the latest development. Seeing that my country is facing difficulties, I felt heartbroken. I miss my family, friends and other people who are going through frustrating times," he wrote.
The 27-year-old striker then explained the meaning of the picture. "I am optimistic about the future because I saw the situation in China is improving, and the country's success is mainly due to all citizens taking their own responsibility."
Giovanni Toti, head of the region of Shaarawy's hometown Liguria, called on citizens to stay at home and avoid outdoor activities. Shaarawy knows that was the Chinese method for fighting against the epidemic and proved effective.
"I hope Italian people could do the same. Obeying regulations of epidemic prevention lays the foundation for the final victory. Now Italy needs more unity than ever," he said.
