An Argentina World Cup winner has been handed a two-year ban after failing a drugs test.

The player, who was part of Argentina’s World Cup-winning team alongside Lionel Messi, attributed the failed test to taking his children’s sickness syrup before the tournament.

Background: World Cup Victory and Failed Test

The player was part of the team that won the FIFA World Cup in December last year after a thrilling penalty shootout victory against France in the final.

However, it has now come to light that he failed a drugs test for a prohibited substance shortly before the World Cup began in November 2022.

Delayed Sanction

The failed test was known to Argentine winger Alejandro ‘Papu’ Gomez and his club at the time, Sevilla, several months ago. However, he has only received his two-year ban this week.

Reason for Failed Test

The 35-year-old player attributed his failed test to taking his children’s sickness syrup without consulting Sevilla’s doctors.

He explained that he had a bad night’s sleep and used the syrup to alleviate his symptoms. However, this reason did not exempt him from the ban.

Appeal Decision

The player must now decide whether to appeal the verdict in an attempt to reduce or overturn his two-year ban.

This development is a disappointment for Serie A club Monza, which recently signed Gomez as a free agent.

Club History and Career Highlights

Gomez had a successful stint at Sevilla, where he won the Europa League. His career is notably associated with his time at Atalanta, where he made 252 appearances and led the club into the Champions League for the first time.

After leaving Atalanta in 2021, he joined Sevilla. However, his time at Monza was cut short, and he has now been banned for two years.

Impact on Career and Club

The ban has significant implications for Gomez’s career, particularly at Monza, where his signing was anticipated to bring positive contributions.

The club has already had to adapt to his absence and may consider potential alternatives during his ban.

This development highlights the importance of athletes’ responsibility for substances they consume, even if the intent is not performance enhancement but personal well-being.

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