Diego Simeone Declares Julián Álvarez’s Situation “Perfectly Clear”

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone addressed the future of Julián Álvarez on Tuesday, stating that it is “perfectly clear” and emphasizing his intent to build a team around the forward this season. This declaration comes ahead of Atlético’s LaLiga opener against Málaga at the Metropolitano Stadium on Wednesday.

Simeone confirmed that Álvarez, who returned late to preseason training after participating in the World Cup final with Argentina, is not yet prepared to join the squad for the upcoming match. The player’s future has been a hot topic this summer, with Real Madrid reportedly offering €150 million ($173 million) for his transfer and FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta acknowledging interest in the player. However, Atlético Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has reiterated that Álvarez is not available for transfer.

“I think if the club’s owner [Gil Marín] spoke categorically, as he did, then that’s it,” Simeone said during the news conference. “It’s perfectly clear. There’s nothing more to it. From there, we focus on the sporting side, trying to look after the person, the player, to get him in shape.”

Recently, it was reported that Simeone and Álvarez had a one-on-one discussion where the forward expressed his desire to leave the club. Despite this, Simeone conveyed that as long as Álvarez is part of Atlético, he will play a significant role in the team. “I deal with the sporting side,” Simeone remarked. “[Julian] is an extraordinary lad. We spoke, as we always do… We need more training sessions with him. He’s the best player we have in attack, I’ve said that and I still think that. I want to build a team around him.”

When asked if Álvarez should apologize to upset Atlético fans for his comments during the World Cup regarding his desire for a transfer, Simeone acknowledged differing opinions: “People will have their opinions. I’m very respectful of people’s opinions, I always have been in these situations — Diego Costa, [Antoine] Griezmann and now Julián.”

In addition, Simeone praised new signing Cristian Romero, who arrived from Tottenham over the weekend. He highlighted Romero’s potential contributions, saying, “[He’ll bring] leadership, strength, quality, experience, commitment. I see him as a player who embodies Atlético Madrid’s values, and he’s here to help us.”

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn