Julián Álvarez Faces Difficult Period at Atlético de Madrid

MADRID, Spain — Julián Álvarez has missed three days of training and will not play in Atlético de Madrid’s upcoming LaLiga match against Sevilla, adding to uncertainty over his future at the club.

Cadena COPE reported, later citing other outlets, that the Argentine forward submitted a medical report diagnosing him with depression. Atlético has officially described his absence as an “indisposition,” while coach Diego Simeone confirmed he will miss the match.

The development comes amid Barcelona’s interest in signing Álvarez. Atlético has repeatedly ruled out negotiating with the Catalan club. Chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín described the player’s situation as “very, very difficult” personally and professionally and said Álvarez will not be sold to Barcelona. The club’s Board of Directors has also stated that no negotiations have taken place and that none will occur.

Álvarez joined Atlético from Manchester City in 2024. His absence and Barcelona’s interest have fueled speculation over his future, prompting public responses from the club and adding tension to the transfer dispute.

Simeone has left open the possibility of Álvarez returning once he resumes normal training, saying the situation can still be resolved. With the transfer window nearing its close, his future remains one of the major storylines in Spanish soccer.

Read the original article in Spanish here.