Athletic Bilbao defender Yeray Álvarez has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned substance, which he says was part of a treatment for alopecia.
The 30-year-old failed a doping test following Bilbao’s 3-0 loss to Manchester United in the Europa League semi-final on May 1.
Álvarez explained that the medication was prescribed as part of his recovery from testicular cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2016. The treatment included a substance prohibited under anti-doping regulations.
“I couldn’t believe it when I received the news,” Álvarez said in a post on social media. “It was a very hard blow. After reviewing the case, we confirmed the positive result came from unintentionally using a hair loss medication containing a banned substance.”
He added that due to the ongoing investigation and the confidentiality of the disciplinary process, he is unable to comment further and has been provisionally suspended from playing.
“I deeply regret this situation,” Álvarez continued. “With the support of the club, I’m focusing on my defense, hoping to return to the pitch as soon as possible.”
UEFA has declined to comment until the disciplinary process is completed.
In a statement, Athletic Bilbao expressed full support for the player: “Athletic Club stands firmly behind Yeray Álvarez and has complete confidence in the authorities responsible for resolving the matter. Once the case concludes, both Yeray and the club will provide all necessary explanations.”
Álvarez, who joined Bilbao from Basconia in 2014, has made 257 appearances for the La Liga side.
