Manchester City’s €150m query stalls Julián Álvarez at Atlético Madrid

Julián Álvarez returned to train on Friday afternoon at the Centro Deportivo de Majadahonda, ending a three‑day absence caused by an indisposition. The Argentine striker, who missed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday morning sessions with Atlético Madrid, completed an individual workout with a club physio. He will be unavailable for Saturday’s La Liga clash with Sevilla.

The session was tailored, with Álvarez working alongside a physical trainer from the rojiblanco squad. Club doctors confirmed he feels better and remains in constant contact with the medical department. The individualised programme marks the start of his physical preparation after missing the last three trainings.

Simeone confirmed that Álvarez will sit out the Saturday meeting with Sevilla, meaning he will not feature in the La Liga fixture. El coach stressed the decision is medical and that the striker will resume full duties once cleared.

Future hinges on Barcelona or €150m fee

Barcelona has been cited as Álvarez’s preferred destination, yet Atlético Madrid has made clear it will not negotiate a sale to the Catalan side. The Argentine signed a contract two years ago that runs until 2030, and the club values him at roughly €150 million. Consequently, the options are either remaining in Madrid or moving to a club prepared to meet that price.

Legal route lets Julián Álvarez quit Atlético for Barcelona

Manchester City probe adds intrigue

En la última hora, Manchester City PREGUNTÓ POR JULIÁN ÁLVAREZ, seeking details on a possible return to the Etihad after his 2022‑24 spell. The English side faces two hurdles: Álvarez’s own doubts about coming back to England and Atlético’s demand for at least €150 million or a guaranteed replacement such as Viktor Gyökeres. Arsenal also surfaced as a potential suitor, but no concrete offer has materialised.

Simeone told reporters, “From the moment he returns to ENTRENAR with us, we will give him everything we always have.” He added, “QUE nada cambiará, LE daremos todo,” confirming the club’s commitment.

EL club’s chief executive, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, reiterated the ambition, saying, “Our intention, and my personal dream, is that he stays with us.” He acknowledged that Álvarez has been “engañado y confundido” by people around him and urged patience as the market deadline approaches.

Valdano warns Julián Álvarez could poison Atlético’s locker room

With five days left before the transfer window shuts, Álvarez’s future remains uncertain, but Atlético Madrid’s firm position suggests any move will require a substantial fee and a suitable replacement. The saga highlights the complexities clubs face when balancing player ambition with financial and sporting considerations.