U-turn! Alvarez "not for sale"

Julián Álvarez will apparently remain at Atlético Madrid beyond the summer. After recent speculation about a move for the Argentinian top striker to FC Barcelona, club president Enrique Cerezo has now caused a U-turn in the matter.

"Barcelona knew since May that Julián is not for sale and will not be for sale," Cerezo explained according to Spanish media reports.

The Atlético boss thus makes it clear that, from the "Rojiblancos'" perspective, there is no room for a transfer of the 26-year-old.

Barca Informed for Months

Cerezo also emphasizes that FC Barcelona has known about Atlético's stance for a long time: "Barcelona was told from the beginning that we want to keep Julián."

The president thus contradicts recent reports that Álvarez himself was pushing for a departure and had chosen Barcelona as his desired destination.

Just a week ago, the Spanish "Mundo Deportivo" reported that Álvarez had sought talks with coach Diego Simeone about his future after returning from holiday. After Simeone was reportedly not present at the training ground, the Argentinian, according to the report, told those present: "I'm out!"

Álvarez reportedly had the club's assurance since February that he would be allowed to leave Atlético in the summer. The capital club is also said to have already rejected an offer from FC Barcelona worth around 100 million euros.

Cerezo Believes in Reconciliation

Despite the recent unrest surrounding the attacker, Cerezo is confident that Álvarez will continue to play an important role at Atlético.

"I don't know if Julián will apologize, but he will win the fans over again within two games," said the president.

Álvarez moved from Manchester City to Atlético Madrid in summer 2024 and has since developed into one of the "Colchoneros'" most important attacking players. His contract in Madrid is still long-term.

Atlético kicks off the season on Wednesday (9:00 PM CEST) with a home game against promoted side FC Málaga. However, Álvarez is not in Diego Simeone's squad.