Italy locked down: Napoli may not be allowed to travel for Barcelona clash

The Italian prime minister, Giuseppe Conte, announced on Monday that the entire country will be locked down following Europe's worst outbreak of coronavirus. 

Nearly 500 people have died in Italy of the virus so far and there have been around 8,000 registered cases. 

The majority of the cases were centred in a number of towns in the north of the country. Those areas had previously been locked down but Conte has now revealed the rest of Italy will follow suit. 

Among the decisions taken by the Italian government, they have decreed the restriction of movement across the whole country, isolating an entire nation. 

Conte said the measures would take effect on Tuesday and he has asked citizens to only travel in the case of an emergency. 

Therefore, it remains to be seen what will happen with next Wednesday's Champions League tie between Barcelona Napoli at Camp Nou. 

Talks are already underway to play the game without supporters but Napoli may not even be able to travel to Catalonia for the second leg last 16 tie -- the teams drew 1-1 in Italy two weeks ago. 

In addition, all mass gatherings have been cancelled in the country, including sporting, cultural and musical events. That means that, until at least April 3, Serie A, the Italian top flight will be suspended. For the moment, a limited public transport service will continue to run. 

Conte finished by saying that "the best thing you can do at the moment is to stay at home."