Athletic Bilbao defender Yare Alvarez says they have been provided provisionally suspended for the “unknown” use of restricted substances used to treat alopecia.
The 30-year-old Spaniard failed the doping test after Bilbao’s 3–0 defeat by Manchester United in the Europea League semi-finals on 1 May.
He said that he was taking medicine as part of his treatment for hair loss after diagnosis of testicular cancer in 2016.
Alvarez, who has performed 257 for the La Liga Club, stated that he could “not believe it” when he was informed about the trial, it was a “very hard blow” to add.
Alwarz said, “After studying the case, we have established that I conducted a positive test because I spontaneously took a prevention of a hair loss containing a restricted substance,” Alverez said. Social media post, external,
“The disciplinary process is currently subject to investigation and is subject to privacy, so I am provisionally suspended and not authorized to make further public statements.
“I regret this situation a lot, but, with the support of the club, I am working on my defense in confidence that I will be able to return to the field of playing as soon as possible.”
The UEFA has told the BBC Sport that they will not comment on the matter until a final disciplinary decision is taken.
An athletic Bilbao’s statement said: “The athletic club wants to express its full support for Jere Alverez and has full confidence in the accused bodies to resolve the case.
“Once the proceedings are over, Yere Alveraz and Athletic Club will provide all relevant and necessary explanations.”
