Atlético Madrid weigh Julián Álvarez’s return ahead of Bilbao clash

Tras defining his future in European football, Julián Álvarez will be at the disposal of Atlético Madrid’s coaching staff for Saturday’s league meeting with Athletic Club at San Mamés, the third fixture of the Spanish top flight this season campaign.

Simeone confirms Álvarez’s return

Diego Simeone confirmed the Argentine Selección forward’s return during the pre‑match press conference before the squad travelled to the País Vasco. “Está entrenando muy bien. Mañana va a venir convocado, va a ser parte del grupo que sale para jugar en Bilbao y esperamos lo mejor de él, como de todos sus compañeros”, the coach said. The squad will travel DE Madrid EN the País Vasco.

Limited minutes and health setbacks

La situation highlights his sparse involvement this season, having logged only 33 minutes against Villarreal in the second half of the campaign. His reduced role stemmed from a dispute while sorting his career, a late return to pre‑season after the 2026 World Cup, and a health issue that kept him out of training for three consecutive matchdays and the recent visit to Sevilla.

En the upcoming match, interest from Barcelona and several Premier League sides did not materialise, and Álvarez will continue wearing the colchonera for the 2026/27 season. The striker’s limited exposure makes his inclusion a notable decision by the coaching staff.

SIMEONE also noted the reduced options up front, as the only absentee for the third round is Norwegian forward Alexander Sørloth, still rehabilitating from a muscular problem. This leaves the attack thinner but offers Álvarez a chance to prove his fitness.

The contrast between Álvarez’s minimal minutes and his immediate availability underscores Simeone’s confidence in the player’s training progress. Saturday’s clash at San Mamés will reveal whether the trust translates into on‑field impact.