Julián Alvarez: Atlético says forward is struggling badly

Atlético Madrid says Julián Alvarez is going through a severe personal and professional crisis as the dispute over his future with Barcelona intensifies. The club’s general manager, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, said the Argentina international had become disoriented and was being misled, while expressing regret over the situation surrounding the forward.

Alvarez missed Atlético’s training for a second consecutive day as he continues to hope for a departure. Barcelona have made him their sole priority for the centre-forward position, with president Joan Laporta confirming that the Catalan club had submitted a significant offer and discussed it directly with Gil Marín. Atlético, however, insists it will not negotiate with Barcelona.

The Madrid club has accused Barcelona of spreading false or incomplete claims and says the dispute has caused it economic and social damage. Atlético has also filed a complaint with the Spanish federation, alleging that Barcelona approached Alvarez improperly. Its position is absolute: the player will not be sold to the Catalan club, regardless of the offer.

Arsenal are also monitoring the 26-year-old, but Alvarez is reportedly not attracted by a return to England. The former Manchester City striker joined Atlético from City for €75 million in the 2024-25 season and remains under contract as the disagreement leaves his immediate future unresolved.