Diego Simeone Furious with Julian Alvarez Over Barcelona Transfer Rumors

The relationship between Diego Simeone and Julian Alvarez at Atletico Madrid has reportedly reached a tense breaking point. Alvarez, the club’s star striker, is strongly linked with a move to Barcelona this summer, stirring frustration within the Atletico camp.

Simeone's Growing Anger

The mood at the Metropolitano stadium has turned sour as reports claim Simeone is furious with his forward. Despite Simeone’s public defense of Alvarez throughout last season, the Argentine’s push for a transfer feels like a betrayal to the manager.

Phil Kitromilides, a La Liga commentator, told CBS Sports: “What I’m hearing is that the dressing room is very, very disappointed with him. And what I’ve been told by someone who knows the situation is that Diego Simeone can’t even look at him. Like, Diego Simeone is furious, absolutely furious with Julian Alvarez. And rightly so.”

Betrayal After Loyalty

Simeone supported Alvarez during difficult stretches, including a four-month goal drought last season. The manager viewed Alvarez as central to Atletico’s long-term plans and never publicly questioned his form, showing unwavering backing even in tough times.

Kitromilides added: “This is his guy, someone he defended publicly, consistently, last season when Alvarez went nearly four months without scoring. He was never questioned by Simeone, never a bad word from him, constantly backed 100 percent. This is their most important player, their franchise player. The whole project is built around Julian Alvarez.”

Barcelona Interest and Alternatives

Alvarez missed some training sessions recently, sparking further rumors of an exit, though he returned to team activities shortly after. Barcelona remain interested in signing him, but Atletico Madrid are holding firm on their stance.

Given the difficulties in closing a deal, Barcelona have shifted focus to other targets. Reports indicate they are close to securing Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal as a more realistic option to strengthen their attack instead of pursuing Alvarez aggressively.

Future at Atletico Madrid

Despite the tension, Alvarez is expected to feature in Atletico’s next match. The club is eager to bring him back into the squad, hoping the player will concentrate on his role amid the ongoing speculation.

Mateu Alemany commented: “The plan is very clear. We hope he’ll be back in the team quickly and available for the next LaLiga match.”

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