Baena warns panic premature for Alvarez, points to Ronaldo and Messi
Alex Baena has stepped forward to defend the Argentine Julian Alvarez, using Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as examples while saying the current criticism should not cause panic.
Alvarez is facing growing scrutiny at Atletico Madrid after a difficult spell that has raised questions about his form and his relationship with the club’s supporters.
Speaking to Cadena SER’s El Larguero, Baena acknowledged that expectations are particularly high because of Alvarez’s reputation as one of the world’s best forwards.
He also said the controversy surrounding the striker’s future has created some discomfort inside the Atletico dressing room.
Supporters’ doubts and transfer links
The Argentine’s relationship with Atletico supporters became increasingly complicated after he publicly expressed doubts about his future and was linked with a potential move to Barcelona or Real Madrid.
Baena admitted that the way the La Albiceleste international handled the situation upset some teammates, even though they would have supported whatever decision he ultimately made.
“It’s a bit strange when a teammate publicly says he wants to leave. It didn’t sit well with us,” Baena explained, adding that he understood a player might have doubts if Barça or Real Madrid come calling but that the manner of handling bothered the squad the most.
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He stressed that the squad never intended to stand in Alvarez’s way and would have supported him whatever he decided to do.
The Argentine has apologised to teammates and supporters.
Baena revealed that Alvarez eventually apologised to all of them, saying the gesture showed his intelligence and character.
Baena said the situation with Atletico supporters remains more complicated, but he believes Alvarez’s commitment and performances can gradually restore their affection.
He added that publicly asking for forgiveness takes a lot, but Alvarez is working extremely hard to rediscover his best form and that the forward remains vital to Atletico’s ambitions.
Ronaldo and Messi as benchmark
Baena’s strongest defence came when discussing the criticism after Atletico’s difficult night against Barcelona, pointing out that the striker continues to receive opportunities and that even the greatest players have had similar struggles.
He cited Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, saying any player can have a bad day and that fans should only start worrying when Alvarez no longer gets four or five chances per game.
According to Baena, the real warning sign would be the 26‑year‑old failing to get into scoring positions, but as long as he continues to receive four or five opportunities per match there is little reason to question his overall contribution.