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Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has clarified Julian Alvarez’s situation amid continued transfer interest from Arsenal and Barcelona as the summer transfer window enters its final stages.
The 26-year-old Argentina international has been at the centre of speculation over his future, with Barcelona’s interest complicated by tensions between the two clubs. Simeone, however, backed Atletico’s leadership and indicated that the club’s position on Alvarez was already clear.
“I think if the club owner spoke so bluntly about what he said, that’s all there is to it, it’s more than clear. This is like when you go to court… there’s nothing more to it,” Simeone told reporters.
Asked about a potential “pardon” for Alvarez, Simeone said: “I am very respectful regarding all the situations we’ve encountered… Griezmann, Diego Costa, and now Julian. I am very respectful of everyone’s opinions.”
Simeone also confirmed that Alvarez will miss Atletico’s La Liga opener against Malaga on Wednesday, but insisted that his absence is based on his physical condition rather than the transfer speculation surrounding him.
“I still think the same way. I take care of the sporting side. We’ve been talking as we always do,” Simeone said.
“From a sporting perspective, we need more training sessions with him so he can improve. He’s one of the best attacking players… if not the best.”
The Atletico manager also welcomed the arrival of Argentina defender Cristian Romero, saying the centre-back would bring important qualities to his squad as the club prepares for the new season.
“Leadership, strength, hierarchy, commitment, quality and belonging surely over time. I see him as a footballer who represents the values and comes to help us,” Simeone said.
With the transfer window still open, Simeone acknowledged that Atletico could yet see further movement before the deadline, saying the club must remain prepared for developments in the market.
“It is a somewhat tricky question. We have to adjust what we see best to get the best out of the team we are going to continue to have, which we still don’t know, there is still market left to finish, nothing surprises me… we are prepared for whatever,” he said.
For now, Simeone’s comments indicate that Alvarez remains part of Atletico’s sporting plans, even as Arsenal and Barcelona continue to pursue the forward.
