UEFA Hands Athletic’s Yeray Alvarez 10-Month Ban for Doping Offense

Following a positive anti-doping control after the Europa League semi-final first leg against Manchester United in May, Athletic Club’s central defender, Yeray Alvarez, has been handed a ten-month suspension by UEFA.

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.

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.