Atlético de Madrid responded to Julián Álvarez a day after the Argentine forward assured that he considers that a transfer would be “the best thing for everyone”, in statements made during the 2026 World Cup that caused discomfort in the red and white leadership.
Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, CEO of the Madrid club, publicly regretted the attacker’s words and made it clear that the institutional position has not changed: Atlético is not contemplating his departure.
“I am very sorry for his words. It was not the day to make those statements, it was the day of Messi and the Argentine team, not Julián,” Gil Marín declared to Agencia EFE.
Álvarez’s words came after Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, marked by Lionel Messi’s double. Asked about his future, the forward surprised by admitting that he has already spoken with the red and white board.
“I think it’s not the time to talk about this, but I can’t hide or pretend to be the other person either. I try to be an honest person. I talked to the people at the club, the ones I had to talk to,” he told ESPN.
When asked if he would leave the club if an attractive opportunity appeared, he responded: “I think the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfill my dream.”
Atlético maintains its position
The club’s reaction was immediate. Gil Marín reiterated that Atlético has no intention of getting rid of the player, one of the most important signings in recent years.
“Julián has a dream and we Atlético also have dreams. It is true that he has spoken with us, but it is also true that he knows our position perfectly because we have been very clear: Atleti does not want to transfer his rights. He is a great player and we are very proud that he plays with us,” he assured.
The manager also publicly questioned the interest of Barcelona, a club that has been linked to the Argentine attacker in recent months.
“Barcelona disrespects us, they think they can ignore us, that we are weak or stupid. But what they are actually showing to the world is a way of acting that defines them,” he said.
Meanwhile, Álvarez remains focused on Argentina
Aside from the controversy, Julián Álvarez continued this Tuesday, June 23, with the preparation of the Argentine team in Kansas City. The forward worked alongside the players who did not start against Austria and was seen talking with Lionel Scaloni and members of the coaching staff.
Signed by Atlético de Madrid in 2024 and with a contract valid until 2030, Álvarez has been linked to several European clubs, although he had never publicly expressed his desire to leave the Madrid entity so clearly.
With Argentina already qualified for the next round of the World Cup, the attacker could have more prominence in the next match against Jordan, while the debate on his future at the club level remains open.