Atletico coach Simeone plans to bench Alvarez due to an ongoing transfer standoff
Atletico Madrid will not have striker Julian Alvarez available for their LaLiga opener against Malaga, coach Diego Simeone announced on Tuesday, as the Argentine is caught in a transfer dispute with Barcelona.
The 26-year-old, who was acquired by Atletico for €75 million ($86.8 million) from Manchester City in 2024, has openly expressed his wish to depart.
Alvarez disclosed during the World Cup that he had discussed a possible transfer with the club to “fulfil my dream,” with Barcelona being prominently mentioned in Spanish media reports.
Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin stated that the club would not entertain offers of €200 million for a key player they intend to retain. “Miguel Angel is the club’s owner. Nothing is more certain than the club’s owner; it’s abundantly clear. It’s akin to when a judge delivers a verdict: ‘Dismissed,'” Simeone expressed to reporters prior to Wednesday’s match. “What he stated is unequivocal. From a sports perspective, we aim to prioritize the individual, the player, and ensure he can maintain his reputation.
We won’t see him participating in this game. I hope that in the coming four days, he will be nearer to our desired outcome.
Alvarez has netted 49 goals in 106 matches for Atletico, and Simeone is optimistic about his participation in the upcoming home game against Villarreal on Sunday. “I still feel the same way I did the other day in Korea (during Atletico’s pre-season tour). I manage the athletic aspects,” Simeone added.
We had our usual conversation, and I recognize that, from a competitive perspective, he still needs to elevate his game to reach peak performance for Sunday. “He requires additional practice. He is the top player on our roster, and we will focus on constructing a team that aligns with his skill level.
