An Argentina international who played at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar has issued a statement after being handed a two-year ban from football.
Check Out: Official: World Cup Winner Banned For Two Years For Doping
On the weekend, former Sevilla midfielder Papu Gomez learned he would be suspended from the sport for 24 months after a banned substance was discovered in his system.
The 35-year-old, who only recently signed for AC Monza in Italy, is due to return in October 2025, but is expected to appeal his punishment in an attempt to have his suspension shortened.
In a six-point statement released on Sunday, as translated by Italian football expert Fabrizio Romano, Gomez explained how he intends to respond.
"1) I confirm that I received word from the Spanish anti-doping commission that my licence is suspended for a period of two years," he said.
"2) I always not just rigorously respected all the rules, but also stood up as a strong defender of clean sport and sporting behaviour, condemning categorically any forms of doping.
"3) I never, nor do I intend to, relied on a banned practice.
"4) The presumed violation originates from the presence of Terbutaline in my system, which I accidentally ingested with a spoonful of cough syrup for my son, to alleviate his cough. It is important to specify that Terbutaline is allowed for professional athletes and in no way does it improve performance in football.
"5) Without getting into the situation, I have asked my lawyers to look into the suggestion the disciplinary case was not treated according to the norms.
"6) I finally wish to thank all those who showed me affection and support during these difficult moments of my professional life."
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