Atlético Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has expressed his outrage over Julián Álvarez’s public admission of wanting to leave the club. He firmly states that Atlético has no intention of allowing the striker to join Barcelona or any other team this summer.
Gil Marín’s frustration is particularly directed at Barcelona, whom he believes has had a hand in Álvarez’s comments. He indicated that Atlético plans to report these developments to FIFA while pursuing the move for the Argentine forward.
The 26-year-old Álvarez revealed his situation following Argentina’s 2-0 victory against Austria in the World Cup, stating that he had communicated his desire for a new challenge to Atletico’s management.
“Today was not the right time for such an announcement. This day belonged to (Lionel) Messi and the Argentina team, not to Julián,” Gil Marín said to EFE. “While he has dreams of playing elsewhere, we as Atlético fans have our own aspirations. It’s true he has conveyed his wishes, but he also understands our stance: Atleti does not wish to transfer him.”
Gil Marín emphasized his pride in having Álvarez on the team, stating, “He is a remarkable player and we are honored to have him represent us.” Although the former Manchester City player has not disclosed a preferred destination, sources indicate that his interest leans toward Barcelona.
Atlético Madrid’s management has criticized Barcelona for the striker’s candid remarks. Gil Marín asserted that they will take steps against the Catalan club for attempting to engage a player contracted until 2030.
“Barcelona is showing us disrespect,” he added. “They believe they can disregard us and treat us as though we are naïve. This reflects their true nature and behavior.”
He also accused Barcelona of resorting to dishonesty with both players and media, claiming, “They mislead both their supporters and the broader football community. This is not the first time they have displayed such behavior; last year, they acted similarly regarding Nico Williams and Athletic Club.”
“It is our duty to safeguard Atlético Madrid’s interests, which is why we will file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for engaging with a player still under contract during his protective period.”
A source from Barcelona contended that Atlético has been aware for some time of the Catalan club’s interest in acquiring Álvarez, with unofficial discussions occurring between the two sides.
Álvarez’s recent comments add another layer to the ongoing transfer saga of the summer. Reports indicate that Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal are all keen on the Argentine striker, who joined Atlético from Manchester City in 2024 for a fee that may reach €95 million (approximately $109 million).
Real Madrid has also shown interest in Álvarez, who carries a staggering release clause of €500 million (about $572 million). Reports earlier this month confirmed that Álvarez has declined a €150 million (around $172 million) offer from Atlético’s city rivals.
Barcelona views Álvarez as a potential successor to Robert Lewandowski, having made an initial bid in May estimated around €100 million ($114 million), which has further angered Atlético.
The club has accused Barcelona of orchestrating “calculated leaks, misinformation, and constant disrespect,” sharing their own mock offers for players like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Rafinha on social media. When Real Madrid announced their €150 million offer, Atlético responded similarly by stating they would neither “investigate nor consider” any bids for Álvarez.
However, with Álvarez now openly expressing his desire for a transfer, the dynamics could shift, especially with Arsenal and PSG keeping a close watch on the situation.
“I don’t believe now is the right moment to discuss this, but I also don’t want to conceal my feelings,” Álvarez told ESPN’s Martin Arevalo. “I strive to be honest. I’ve expressed my thoughts to those who need to hear them at Atlético. I believe it’s best for both parties to part ways, and I want to fulfill my ambitions.”
Since his arrival at Atlético, Álvarez has made 106 appearances across competitions, netting 49 goals, including 10 in the previous season’s Champions League. He is currently representing Argentina in the World Cup, having been substituted in during the opening matches against Algeria and Austria.
ESPN’s Rodrigo Faez contributed to this report.
