Papu Gómez Aims for Comeback Following Two-Year Doping Suspension

Alejandro “Papu” Gómez, a 2022 World Cup winner with Argentina, shared his struggles after a doping suspension kept him out of football. At 36, he plans to revive his career with Calcio Padova in Italy’s Serie B, viewing this comeback as a new beginning after he thought he had lost the sport for good.

Gómez tested positive for terbutaline, a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency, after using a cough syrup meant for his child. While he took responsibility, he questioned the fairness of his two-year ban, pointing out that cases involving recreational drugs often receive lighter penalties. “For me, football had died,” he recalled, sharing that there were months when he couldn’t watch any matches.

Once a star at Atalanta and also known for his time at Arsenal de Sarandí, San Lorenzo, Sevilla, and Monza, he has signed a two-year contract with Padova, with the possibility of a third year. While training in Bergamo, where he lives with his family, he maintained his fitness through three training centers he runs. He will be eligible to play again on October 18 and feels as though he is about to make his professional debut once more.

Gómez reflected on his relationship with Lionel Scaloni, recalling their time at Atalanta before they were reunited on the national team. He praised Scaloni’s professionalism and leadership, especially in bringing harmony to the team during Argentina’s World Cup campaign.

As he gets ready to return, Gómez emphasized the importance of focusing on the present rather than past successes. “The most important thing is the present,” he stated.