European interest and exit rumors

In recent weeks, Julián Álvarez has become a key player in the transfer market. Barcelona appeared as the main candidate to acquire the forward, after the player himself publicly expressed his desire to "fulfill his dream" and communicated to Atlético his intention to leave. Arsenal also showed interest, among other European clubs that wanted to acquire the star forward.

Simeone sets the club's direction

From Seoul, ahead of the friendly match against Manchester City, Diego Simeone cleared up doubts about the future of the Argentine forward. "I think the situation is very clear. The club made a decision that Miguel Ángel Gil Marín explained very well. From a sporting perspective, we are very happy to have a player like Julián. We are going to help him continue growing, improving, and delivering the best, which has been a lot in these two years," affirmed the coach. Álvarez, who has not yet rejoined after playing in the World Cup final with Argentina, is still considered a key piece in the red-and-white project.

Numbers that support its importance

Statistics reinforce Álvarez's importance at Atlético. In the last season, excluding the Club World Cup, he participated in 29 goals (20 goals and 9 assists) in 49 matches, ranking among the five most influential players in LaLiga. Since his debut in August 2024, he has accumulated 49 goals and 238 shots, in addition to sharing the lead in assists. When asked how the fans might react to the departure rumors, Simeone recalled the case of Antoine Griezmann, who had to win back the affection of the fans after his time at Barcelona. "I see no other way but to focus on the sporting aspect and help Julián, as we have done in these years," concluded the coach.

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