Álvarez issues Atlético Madrid an ultimatum to join Barcelona
Julián Álvarez lost patience after failing to meet Simeone and executive president Gil Marín, warning Atlético Madrid officials not to count on him next season unless his move to Barcelona is approved.
Julián Álvarez lost his patience after being unable to meet his coach Diego Simeone to discuss his wish to join FC Barcelona, on top of the absence of Atlético Madrid executive president Miguel Ángel Gil Marín.
What happened?
Álvarez showed up at Atlético Madrid's training ground for the first time since the World Cup final, expecting to meet Simeone, who had gone away for a two-day break in Ibiza. The Argentine forward feels his coach lacked the courage to address the issue with him directly, and he also grew impatient with Gil Marín, who was likewise on holiday, even though Álvarez wanted to resolve the situation through dialogue. Álvarez told club officials not to count on him next season.
Atlético Madrid's stance
Simeone confirmed he is standing firm on keeping his countryman Álvarez, refusing to let him leave during the current transfer window despite Barcelona's interest. Gil Marín, for his part, said: "We don't want to sell him. We didn't accept an offer of 100 million euros, and we won't accept 150 million or 200 million."
Key facts
- Álvarez is furious after failing to meet Simeone and Gil Marín to discuss his departure.
- He told Atlético Madrid officials not to count on him next season.
- Simeone confirmed he wants to keep Álvarez and refused to let him leave this window.
- Gil Marín turned down offers reaching €200 million for the player.
