Julián Álvarez news
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The gist
Julián Álvarez returned to Atlético Madrid training after missing sessions amid Barcelona and Arsenal transfer links. The saga may continue in January as Atlético refused to sell to Barcelona.
Background
Julián Álvarez, an Argentine forward, joined Atlético Madrid from Manchester City in 2024 for up to €95 million. This summer, he expressed a desire to move to Barcelona, but Atlético refused to sell to their La Liga rivals. Arsenal also showed interest but were unsuccessful. The transfer window closed with Álvarez staying at Atlético, but reports suggest the saga may resume in January.
How it unfolded
- Jun 2026Álvarez told ESPN after Argentina's World Cup win over Austria that a transfer to Barcelona was the best thing for everyone.
- Jul 30, 2026Atlético reported Barcelona to the Spanish Football Federation over their pursuit of Álvarez.
- Aug 10, 2026Álvarez returned to Atlético for pre-season training.
- Aug 30, 2026Álvarez returned to full group training after missing sessions due to an 'indisposition' and was left out of the squad for the Sevilla match.
- Sep 1, 2026The La Liga transfer window closed with Álvarez still at Atlético.
- Sep 4, 2026Coach Diego Simeone said Álvarez is training well and will be called up for the next match, expecting the best from him.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Atlético's director Mateu Alemany said the plan is clear and Álvarez will be back in action quickly, while coach Simeone expressed support for the player.
- Public
- Álvarez publicly stated in June that moving to Barcelona was his dream and the best for everyone, which frustrated Atlético.
- Analysts
- Some analysts suggest Álvarez needs to rebuild trust with Atlético supporters after making his preference for Barcelona clear.
- Caution
- Sky Sports' Jamie Redknapp feels patience is needed to sign Álvarez in a future window, noting Arsenal's summer was still positive despite missing out.
Still unverified
Reports that Atlético received a €100 million offer from Barcelona structured in six yearly installments are based on sources at both clubs, but Barcelona did not respond to requests for comment on the structure. The Spanish Football Federation has not publicly updated on Atlético's complaint against Barcelona.