Julián Alvarez kept from Atlético fans after jeers

Atlético Madrid kept Julián Alvarez away from the supporters after he was loudly jeered, a measure that reflected the strain surrounding the Argentina international. Diego Simeone said the club wanted him separated from the stands and sent him to the dressing room before his teammates, while continuing to regard him as an important player. Alvarez has been linked with a move to Barcelona and was targeted by hostile messages during the evening.

The forward was booed when his name was announced before the 2-2 draw with Villarreal at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, then received a stronger reaction when he came on for Marc Pubill in the 66th minute. It was his return to action after he was left out of the opening-round victory over Malaga, which Atlético won 2-0. The results leave the Madrid club with four points from two Liga matches.

Alvarez later walked alone towards the dressing rooms with his head down as the rest of the squad acknowledged the supporters. Simeone stressed that Atlético must remain united and protect the quality of its attack if it is to pursue its objectives. Football director Mateu Alemany also made clear before the match that the club wants to keep Alvarez, describing the issue as one that has persisted for five or six months. His return to the squad was presented as evidence of Atlético’s current position.