Julián Álvarez’s return to Atlético Madrid marked by frustration amid transfer saga
Julián Álvarez, a target for FC Barcelona, recently returned to Atlético Madrid headquarters to begin his preseason. His return on Monday was reportedly met with frustration, as he seeks to force a move away from the club.
According to reports, Álvarez had intended to speak with coach Diego Simeone after training to explain his situation and formally request a transfer. However, Simeone had reportedly decided to take a two-day vacation in Ibiza with his family following Atlético’s tour of Asia. Álvarez also found that Atlético CEO Gil Marín was absent from his office, which reportedly led to his frustration.
The Argentine striker reportedly believes his coach lacked the courage to confront the transfer issue and speak with him, especially since it was public knowledge that Álvarez was arriving on Monday and wished to talk. He is also reportedly dissatisfied with Gil Marín, who he believed could help resolve his situation but was also on vacation.
Álvarez had reportedly warned those present on Monday that his patience had run out, stating, “Count me out,” and indicating he would stand his ground. He claims to have received a promise from his club in February that they would not impede a transfer this summer. Reports suggest he has now lost his temper and is determined to force his move to Barça.
Simeone’s Stance and Delayed Talks
Showdown talks between Simeone and Álvarez, which were anticipated for Monday, August 10, have been delayed. The earliest these discussions are now expected to take place is Wednesday, August 13. Simeone reportedly opted not to return to the Spanish capital immediately, instead taking a few days off before resuming Atlético’s preseason preparations ahead of a La Liga opener against Malaga on the 19th.
This delay means Álvarez might have to train as usual with the rest of the first-team squad while awaiting Simeone’s return. Simeone had previously indicated that Atlético Madrid intended to keep Álvarez. Speaking from South Korea, Simeone referred to comments made by Gil Marín ruling out a sale, stating, “The situation is very clear, the entity made a decision that Miguel Angel explained very well.”
Simeone expressed satisfaction with Álvarez’s performance, adding, “We are very happy with Julian, from a sporting point of view we will help him to continue growing, to continue improving and to give us again what he has given us in these two years, which was a lot.” He also referenced Antoine Griezmann’s situation, suggesting a focus on working from the sporting side to help Álvarez, as they had done over the past two years.
Media Attention and Transfer Window
The ongoing transfer saga has attracted significant media attention. Spanish football journalist Gerard Romero has reportedly set up a network of cameras to track Álvarez’s movements between his residence and Atlético Madrid’s training ground. This unusual approach, which goes beyond conventional transfer reporting, aims to provide updates on his journey to training through Romero’s live broadcasts.
Romero had initially planned to travel to Madrid for on-the-ground coverage but reportedly cancelled the trip after receiving threats from Atlético Madrid supporters. His team then turned to remote coverage methods, including cameras and local feeds. This monitoring has drawn criticism on social media, with some users describing it as stalking rather than journalism.
Despite the complexities, the transfer window still has three weeks remaining, providing time for Barcelona to potentially secure a deal for Álvarez. The striker had previously stated his “dream” to play for Blaugrana, without explicitly naming Barcelona, following a victory against Austria in North America. He mentioned speaking to club officials and believes a transfer would be best for all parties involved.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
