UEFA has slammed Athletic Club’s central defender, Yeray Alvarez, with a ten-month suspension after the Spaniard tested positive in an anti-doping control conducted following the first leg of the Europa League semi-final against Manchester United in May.
In its ruling, the European football body acknowledged that the 29-year-old did not intentionally attempt to enhance his performance but stressed that he remained responsible for the banned substance found in his system.
“Although the disciplinary body considers it proven that there was no intent to dope, it reminds that, in accordance with regulations, it is the athlete’s responsibility to ensure the legality of the substances he consumes,” UEFA said.
Investigations revealed that Álvarez ingested the prohibited substance accidentally while taking preventive medication for hair loss.
Reacting to the sanction in July, the defender admitted fault via a post on his 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) account and accepted the suspension.
The ban, which took effect from June 2 when he was provisionally suspended, rules him out until April 2, 2026, when he will be eligible to return to official competition.
He may, however, rejoin training with his teammates from February 2, 2026.
Bellnews reports that Alvarez’s absence comes as a huge blow to Athletic Club, who are competing in the Champions League this season.
The Basque side is scheduled to face Paris Saint-Germain in a crunch group fixture on December 10.