WASHINGTON -- Major League Soccer (MLS) announced on Thursday that Nashville SC has been withdrawn from the MLS is Back Tournament competition after the club was hit by the spread of COVID-19.

Since arriving in Orlando, where the tournament is being played without fans, nine players on Nashville have tested positive for COVID-19, the league confirmed.

The decision was made in the best interest of the health of all players and staff participating in the tournament, and in line with protocols created in conjunction with local and national health authorities and infectious disease experts, the league added.

"We have withdrawn Nashville SC from the MLS is Back Tournament. Due to the number of positive tests, the club has been unable to train since arriving in Orlando and would not be able to play matches," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. "For every decision we make in our return to play, the wellbeing of our players, staff, officials and all participants is our top priority."

Dallas has also been withdrawn earlier this week after many players tested positive for the virus.

The MLS is Back Tournament is slated for July 8-Aug 11.