Atalanta defender Jose Luis Palomino provided an update on his situation following his appearance at the the National Anti-Doping Court in Rome today.
The 32-year-old Argentinian defender tested positive for a clostebol metabolite during an unannounced check by Nado Italia during the pre-season in the summer. He was suspended on a precautionary basis and has remained sidelined ever since. Clostebol is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid that’s banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Speaking via TMW after his appearance at the National Anti-Doping Court, Palomino first discussed today’s events.
“I spoke again with the judge, I explained my position to him and now I just have to wait, confident that this will soon be over. Let’s see.”
He recounted what happened and expressed his confidence that things will be resolved soon.
“I am calm. I explained what happened to me and now I have to wait. I am confident, I want to return to the field. Let’s wait.”
Finally, Palomino was asked if his positive test was the result of a possible product contamination.
“I have already explained, I have already explained…”
The ruling that’ll decide the footballing fate of Palomino is expected to be announced next week. The 32-year-old is at risk of receiving a two-year ban, which would essentially end his career considering that his deal with Atalanta expires next summer.