Julian Alvarez Missing as Transfer Talk Grows
Alvarez’s omission comes at a time when his future at Atletico has become one of the biggest transfer stories in Spain. Reports have linked the 26-year-old with a move away from Madrid, with Barcelona and Arsenal among the clubs mentioned in the recent speculation.
Reuters reported that Alvarez has expressed a desire to join Barcelona, describing the move as a dream, while Atletico have maintained that they do not want to sell their star forward. Club CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin has reportedly indicated that Atletico would reject even huge offers for the player.
Primera convocatoria del Atleti 26/27. pic.twitter.com/1ZqlvBpY8y
— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) August 19, 2026
However, Simeone has attempted to cool the speculation. Speaking ahead of the Malaga game, the Atletico boss described Alvarez as the club’s best attacking player and said the team needs to be built around him. Simeone also suggested that the striker still needs more training before returning to his best physical condition.
“Miguel Angel is the club’s owner. Nothing is more definitive than the club’s owner, it’s crystal clear. It’s like when a judge hands down a ruling: ‘Dismissed,'”Simeone told reporters ahead of Wednesday’s game.
“What he said is crystal clear. From a sports perspective, we want to look out for the person, the player, so he can continue to uphold his reputation.
“We don’t see him playing in this game. I hope that over the next four days, he’ll be closer to where we want him to be.”
Atletico Madrid Begin New La Liga Campaign Without Their Star Forward
Alvarez has been one of Atletico’s key attacking figures since arriving from Manchester City in 2024. He has scored 49 goals in 106 appearances for the Spanish club, making his absence impossible to ignore.
For now, Atletico’s message appears clear: Alvarez remains part of Simeone’s plans despite the noise surrounding his future.
The timing, however, will only add fuel to the rumours. With the La Liga season beginning and Alvarez watching from outside the squad, fans will be waiting for the next chapter of a transfer story that refuses to go away.
