Athletic defender Yeray diagnosed with testicular cancer
The 21-year-old will undergo surgery next week after being diagnosed, with his club throwing their support behind him and indicating the youngster is calm
Athletic Bilbao defender Yeray Alvarez has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, the club have confirmed.
The 21-year-old, who made his La Liga debut last year, is due to undergo surgery next Tuesday.
Athletic president Josu Urrutia and club medical chief Jotxean Lekue held a press conference on Friday, at the behest of the player, in which they confirmed the diagnosis and expressed their admiration for the player's positive approach.
"During the day [on Thursday] Yeray had medical tests which detected a tumour in one of his testicles," Lekue said.
"It requires an operation which will take place next week.
"The player is okay, strong, calm. He's showing maturity, not only on the pitch, but also off it. He's optimistic. We're all with him, too."
Messages of support have been sent to Athletic and Yeray since the announcement, including from La Liga rivals Villarreal and Osasuna plus team-mate Mikel San Jose.
"You have all of us by your side!" he tweeted.