Athletic Bilbao defender Yeray Álvarez has received a 10-month suspension from UEFA following a failed doping test, dealing a major blow both to the player and the club. The ruling stems from an in-competition test taken after Bilbao’s 3-0 loss to Manchester United in the Europa League semifinals in May 2025. UEFA confirmed the suspension began with Álvarez’s provisional ban on June 2, 2025, and runs through April 2, 2026, with the player eligible to return to team training two months earlier, on February 2, 2026.
What happened and why
The test detected Canrenone, a banned substance categorized by UEFA as a diuretic and a masking agent. Such substances are strictly prohibited under anti-doping regulations, regardless of whether the violation is intentional or accidental.
Álvarez, who overcame a battle with testicular cancer in 2016, claimed that the ingestion was unintentional. He stated that the positive result was traced back to a medication used to treat alopecia, a condition that developed following his cancer treatment. The defender says the banned substance was present in that hair loss medicine, an unintended mistake rather than a doping attempt.
The suspension broken down
- Duration: 10 months, from June 2, 2025, to April 2, 2026
- Training eligibility: Can resume with team facilities from February 2, 2026, per UEFA rules
- Official verdict: UEFA determined the breach was non-intentional, but still imposed a substantial ban.
Having been a one-club man from youth to senior team—making 257 appearances by that point—Álvarez’s absence will be deeply felt at San Mamés.
Looking back at the provisional suspension
The case unfolded publicly in mid-July. Álvarez issued a heartfelt statement expressing shock at the result and maintained his innocence, characterizing it as a “human error.” Athletic Club quickly voiced unwavering support for him. The club described the incident as unfortunate, emphasising that it stands by a player celebrated for his integrity and resilience.
From his post and media coverage at the time:
“After studying the case, we have established that I tested positive because I unintentionally took a hair loss prevention medicine containing a banned substance… I very much regret this situation but, with the support of the club, I am working on my defence in the belief that I will be able to return to the field of play as soon as possible.”
The personal element
Álvarez’s story is marked not only by athletic achievement but personal struggle and perseverance. Diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2016, he successfully recovered and returned to the pitch, becoming a cornerstone for Athletic both defensively and symbolically. His battle with alopecia—a side effect of cancer treatment—and the resulting medication shed light on how medical issues can unintentionally intersect with anti-doping rules.
What this means for Athletic Bilbao
The timing of the suspension is delicate. Athletic prepare for another Champions League campaign, and Álvarez’s leadership at the back is sorely missing. The team now faces the challenge of adjusting defensively without a trusted veteran for nearly the entirety of the season.
While UEFA acknowledged the non-intentional nature of the violation, the ban underscores the unforgiving nature of anti-doping regulations and highlights the need for players to thoroughly vet all medications—even those prescribed for legitimate health issues.
In essence, Álvarez’s ban is a poignant reminder of the thin line players tread between health needs and regulatory compliance. It’s a tough chapter for a player whose resilience has already been tested—and who now must wait to return to the field.
