Spanish newspaper 'Marca' reported that Athletic Bilbao defender Yeray Alvarez tested positive in a doping test conducted by UEFA following his team's match against Manchester United in the first leg of the Europa League semi-finals.

The player explained in a statement posted on his official Instagram account that the positive test result was due to inadvertently taking a preventive medication for hair loss that contained a banned substance. He added that he is temporarily suspended from participation until the investigations are completed, emphasizing his commitment to remain silent at this stage in respect of the confidentiality procedures imposed by the regulations.

Athletic Bilbao confirmed in an official statement its full support for Yeray during this ordeal, expressing confidence in the authorities responsible for the investigation. The club clarified that it will refrain from making any further comments until the case is concluded and all details are officially clarified later.

Yeray concluded his statement with a message to Bilbao fans expressing his regret for what happened, confirming that he did not intentionally consume any banned substances, and pledged to work with his lawyer and the club to prove his position and return to the pitch as soon as possible.