During an exhibition match against Panama in Buenos Aires on March 23, Lionel Messi, sporting jerseys emblazoned with three stars, presented the coveted World Cup trophy in front of the ecstatic home crowd. The celebratory atmosphere continued to envelop Argentina as their national heroes stepped onto the pitch for the first time since their sensational victory in Qatar.

The prospect of witnessing such a momentous occasion proved to be irresistible, as approximately 1.8 million people eagerly vied for tickets. Such was the overwhelming demand that they were completely sold out within a mere two hours.

Among the triumphant group of 26 players who proudly lifted the World Cup at the Lusail Stadium on December 18, there was one notable absentee. Papu Gomez, then a Sevilla player, did not join his teammates on the return journey to Argentina. Instead, he stayed behind in Spain, where he could only witness the jubilant celebrations of his compatriots on television.

Curiously, no official explanation was provided for the perplexing absence of Gomez. Speculation surfaced in Spain indicating that Sevilla may have discouraged Gomez from returning to Argentina due to his ongoing recovery from a left ankle injury sustained in Qatar. 

Following a period of seven months, the truth has finally come to light. 

In a statement released on Friday, Italian Serie A team Monza confirmed that Gomez, who joined the club in September, had tested positive for a prohibited substance in October while representing Sevilla, and as a consequence, FIFA has imposed a two-year ban on the midfielder.  

According to Monza, the substance detected in Gomez's sample was terbutaline, a drug commonly used to alleviate bronchospasm crises. Monza asserts that the positive test was a result of "involuntary ingestion," suggesting that Gomez may have unknowingly come into contact with the prohibited substance. The club has stated its intention to assess the subsequent procedural measures to be taken in response to this revelation. 

Subsequent to the initial disclosure, Spanish media outlet Relevo shed further light on the matter, revealing that Gomez's defense for testing positive was rooted in a night of feeling unwell. It is alleged that during this period, Gomez consumed a syrup that had been prescribed for one of his children, without prior consultation with the club's medical staff.

The anti-doping regulations are unequivocal, leaving no room for ambiguity. The undisclosed substance for which Gomez tested positive was listed as prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

It is crucial to acknowledge that players bear the ultimate responsibility for the substances detected in their system, making it imperative for them to exercise caution and vigilance. While seeking advice from medical professionals is essential, it does not serve as a valid defense when it comes to complying with anti-doping protocols.  

It appears that both Gomez and Sevilla were aware of the potential consequences that a positive test could bring, including the possibility of a significant suspension. Nonetheless, as the report indicates, clearance was granted for Gomez to continue participating in matches prior to any official sanction being imposed.

This provides insight into the timeline leading up to Gomez's positive test shortly before he joined the Argentine World Cup squad. Despite the circumstances, he started in their group stage encounter against Saudi Arabia and also featured in the round of 16 match against Australia. 

Last summer, Gomez witnessed Sevilla's victory in the Europa League final from the bench. After departing as a free agent, he made his way to Monza and has since participated in two Serie A matches upon his return to Italy. 

Prior to his departure, Gomez served as the captain of Atalanta, playing a pivotal role in the club's string of successful seasons. However, a disagreement with coach Gian Piero Gasperini prompted his exit in January 2021, leading him to join Sevilla. 

The path ahead for Gomez, whether he opts to appeal the decision or contemplates retirement, remains uncertain. However, there is solace in the fact that he has already reached the pinnacle of his career by clinching the World Cup, even though the joyous celebration of this victory eluded him on home soil.