Absence from training
Julián Álvarez did not take part in Atlético Madrid's training session on Wednesday, with the club citing a stomach complaint as the reason. The session was the first since the team's 2-2 draw with Villarreal, during which the Argentine forward was jeered by home fans after coming on as a substitute. The absence has heightened concerns about his future at the club.[S1][S2][S3]
The training took place at the Majadahonda sports complex, where coach Diego Simeone was preparing for Saturday's match against Sevilla. Despite the setback, the coaching staff reportedly expects Álvarez to recover in time for that game. The player had returned to action against Villarreal after participating in the World Cup with Argentina.[S3][S4][S6]
Transfer saga continues
Álvarez has expressed his desire to leave Atlético and join Barcelona, a move the Madrid club has consistently blocked. In June, the board rejected a €100 million offer from Barcelona, payable in installments, insisting on the €500 million release clause in his contract, which runs until 2030. The club is reluctant to sell to a direct La Liga rival.[S1][S3][S5]
Barcelona remains interested, with sporting director Deco and coach Hansi Flick reportedly agreeing not to pursue alternatives if the Álvarez deal fails. Flick declined to comment on the player, referring to the president's earlier statements. Meanwhile, Arsenal has reopened talks, but Álvarez prefers to stay in Spain, complicating negotiations.[S1][S2][S3]
Club's stance and internal divisions
Atlético's leadership is divided over how to handle the situation. Some officials are open to negotiating a sale if the offer meets their financial demands, while others, including Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and Mateu Alemany, are determined not to sell to a direct competitor. The club has set a price of around €150 million for interested parties, preferably in a single payment.[S1][S6]
Coach Diego Simeone has made clear he wants to keep Álvarez and considers him part of his plans, but he leaves the decision to the club and the player. The transfer window in Spain closes on September 1, leaving little time to resolve the standoff. The situation has been ongoing since late May, with Álvarez publicly stating his wish to move.[S1][S2][S3]
