Winning Start, but No Julian Alvarez
On August 19, 2026, Atletico Madrid kicked off their LaLiga campaign (Spain's top football division) with a solid 2-0 victory over Malaga at the Metropolitano Stadium. Goals came in the second half: Kang-in Lee scored in the 70th minute, and Álex Baena added a stunning free kick in the 85th. The team, coached by Diego Simeone, secured three points, but the real story was the absence of Julian Alvarez from the matchday squad.
Simeone explained before the game: 'From a sporting perspective, we need more training with him so he can be at his best. He is one of the best players, or the best.' He also ruled out any transfer: 'If the owner of the club speaks so bluntly, I think there's nothing more to say. It's like in court: no place.'
President's Firm Stance
Club president Enrique Cerezo was even more direct: 'I already said from the beginning that he was not for sale. He is a key piece of our team, and as a key piece, we love him and want him with us. I'm sure he will have a magnificent season.' About fan reactions, Cerezo added: 'Julian is an excellent person, and I'm absolutely sure he will win over the fans in just two games.'
This comes amid strong interest from FC Barcelona, who reportedly made a €100 million offer in early June, which Atletico rejected. Alvarez has a contract with Atletico until 2030 and a release clause of €490 million—a standard feature in Spanish football contracts that allows a club to buy a player if they pay that amount. The Spanish transfer window closes on September 1, but Atletico's leadership remains unmoved.
The Viral Photo That Says It All
Amid the tension, Atletico released the official team photos for the new season. Julian's portrait, showing a serious expression and a direct stare into the camera, contrasted sharply with his cheerful poses in previous years. The image quickly went viral, with fans creating memes—some comparing him to someone 'in prison.' Spanish sports media like Sport and Mundo Deportivo noted the change: 'Clean-shaven, an unfamiliar image since he arrived in Spain; taciturn, head down,' wrote the latter.
Barcelona's Pursuit and the Player's Desire
Julian Alvarez, a World Cup champion with Argentina, has expressed his desire to join Barcelona, calling it 'his dream.' During the summer, he reportedly told the club he wanted to leave. However, Atletico's hierarchy has been categorical: they will not negotiate his sale under any circumstances.
What's Next?
Simeone hopes to have Alvarez available for the next match against Villarreal. But the saga is far from over. Meanwhile, the official photo remains a powerful symbol of the tension between the player and the club. Fans will be watching closely to see how this drama unfolds.
Sources: TyC Sports | Infobae | TN | Rosario3