Yeray Alvarez Suspended After Failed Doping Test

Athletic Bilbao defender Yeray Alvarez is facing a provisional suspension following a positive doping test after a Europa League match against Manchester United. The player claims the positive result stemmed from unintentionally ingesting a prohibited substance found in medication used for hair loss treatment.

Alvarez stated that the positive test occurred after Bilbao’s 3-0 defeat at home during the semi-finals of the European competition in May. The Spanish team also suffered a 4-1 loss in the second leg.

The 30-year-old, who plays as a centre back, had previously been diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2016. He explained that he had been using the medicine as part of his alopecia treatment.

Unintentional Ingestion

“Following a thorough investigation, it has been determined that the positive test resulted from the unintentional use of a hair loss prevention medication that contained a banned substance,” Alvarez communicated in a social media statement on Thursday.

“The disciplinary process is currently underway and subject to confidentiality. Therefore, I am provisionally suspended and unable to make any further public comments.

“I deeply regret this situation and want to assure everyone that, with the club’s support, I am actively working on my defense. I remain optimistic that I will be able to return to playing as soon as possible.”

UEFA has stated they will withhold any comments on the matter until a final decision regarding the disciplinary action is reached.

Bilbao has voiced their complete backing for Yeray Alvarez, who progressed through the club’s youth system and has played in 257 games for the senior team across all competitions.