Athletic Bilbao Yeray Alvarez claims alopecia medication to blame failed drug tests
Athletic Bilbao center back Yeray Alvarez has been temporarily suspended after testing positive for a banned substance and claims he took it carelessly as part of his treatment for alopecia.
Alvarez tested positive support Athletics’ 3-0 defeat to Manchester United In the Europa League semi-finals on May 1st.
The defender, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2016, has never intentionally taken any banned substances and claims his positive test comes from a drug used to treat hair loss.
In a statement posted on his social media accounts, Alvarez wrote: “A few weeks ago, I was told they tested positive for doping controls conducted by UEFA after the Europa League semi-final against Manchester United.
“I have been following years of treatment for alopecia since I overcome my illness. After studying cases, I found that the positive result was because I took preventative medication for hair loss containing prohibited substances.
– yeray (@yerayalvarez4) July 10, 2025
“I have been temporarily suspended and have no authority to release additional public statements as the disciplinary proceedings are currently in the investigation phase and are subject to confidentiality.
“I want to share all of the things I feel very sorry about this situation, but with the support of the club, I defend myself with confidence that I will be able to return to the arena as soon as possible, and once the process is complete, I will provide you with all the necessary explanations.
“We would like to thank the Athletic Club for their support and support from the first moment, and express our confidence in justice and sports institutions.”
Athletic added in a statement on their website: “As Yeray himself pointed out, the club is not authorized to release additional official statements on the matter as the procedures are in the investigation stage and are subject to confidentiality.
“Once the process is complete, Yeray Alvarez and the Athletic Club will provide you with the relevance and all the necessary explanations.
“The Athletic Club wants to express full support for YerayAlvarez at this time and full confidence in the organization responsible for solving the case.”