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Yeray Alvarez Faces 10-Month Ban for Positive Drug Test

9/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

Yeray Alvarez, an Athletic Bilbao defender, received a 10-month UEFA ban for testing positive for canrenone, a banned diuretic, after a Europa League match against Manchester United in May 2025.
UEFA noted the substance was unintentionally ingested via medication for hair loss linked to his previous testicular cancer treatment.
The ban is backdated to June 2, 2025, allowing Alvarez to return to training in February 2026 and play in April 2026.
His suspension affects Athletic Bilbao's Champions League and domestic campaigns, creating a center-back shortage.
Alvarez intends to appeal the decision and has expressed regret over the situation.

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Story summary

Yeray Alvarez, an Athletic Bilbao defender, received a 10-month UEFA ban for testing positive for canrenone, a banned diuretic, after a Europa League match against Manchester United in May 2025.
UEFA noted the substance was unintentionally ingested via medication for hair loss linked to his previous testicular cancer treatment.
The ban is backdated to June 2, 2025, allowing Alvarez to return to training in February 2026 and play in April 2026.
His suspension affects Athletic Bilbao's Champions League and domestic campaigns, creating a center-back shortage.
Alvarez intends to appeal the decision and has expressed regret over the situation.