Germany's decision that soccer can return this month provided encouragement for players and teams across Europe on Wednesday that the shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic could soon be coming to an end.
With COVID-19 infections declining, German Chancellor Angela Merkel declared that the return of the top two leagues could be included in the loosening of lockdown measures.
However, supporters will be locked out of stadiums for some time to come across Europe to contain the coronavirus while there is no vaccine.
The Bundesliga is now set to be the first major men's soccer competition to resume in Europe on Friday, May 15 after the shutdown of the sport across the continent in March.