Athletic Club defender Yeray Álvarez will not receive any salary during his 10-month suspension from football, following a positive test for a banned substance in a Europa League match against Manchester United. The 30-year-old, a former cancer patient, attributed the test result to a hair loss medication he had taken, emphasizing that the ingestion was unintentional.
“I accept my mistake, and, for that reason, I will not receive any payment during the time I am unable to compete,” Álvarez said in a statement. He has consistently maintained transparency with his club, ensuring they were informed from the outset. Athletic Bilbao has praised his decision as a demonstration of professionalism and integrity.
The ban, issued by UEFA, began on June 2, 2025, and will conclude on April 2, 2026, though Álvarez will be eligible to resume training from February 2. UEFA clarified that while the substance detected—canrenone—was prohibited, there was no evidence of intentional doping. Nevertheless, under strict liability rules in sports, athletes are ultimately responsible for any substances in their bodies.
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Álvarez’s career has been marked by resilience. Diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2016, he made a remarkable return to top-flight football, becoming a central figure in Athletic Bilbao’s defense. His honesty about the inadvertent breach and his willingness to forgo wages during the suspension underline a commitment to both ethical conduct and loyalty to the club.
Fans and commentators have responded with empathy, noting the unusual circumstances and the context of his past health struggles. While the suspension interrupts his playing career, it also serves as a reminder of the strict regulatory environment governing professional football and the personal responsibility placed on athletes.
By choosing to waive his salary, Álvarez has signaled accountability and respect for his team, even as he navigates a challenging period professionally and personally. His decision underscores a broader principle in sport: that integrity often requires difficult choices, balancing individual ambition with fairness and transparency. As he prepares to return to training in February, supporters hope to see him back on the pitch, not just as a player, but as an example of courage and professionalism in modern football.