The situation surrounding Julián Álvarez is becoming increasingly tense ahead of Atlético Madrid’s match against Villarreal on Sunday (August 23 – 6:00 p.m.) at the “Metropolitano.”

In the area surrounding the Mahadaonda training center, where the Argentine forward trained as usual on Friday (August 21), clear messages directed against him appeared that morning: “Álvarez, go away,” while nearby there were signs with the number “19” crossed out, referring to his jersey number.

Tensions between Álvarez, Atlético, and a section of the fans is escalating, as the Argentine had already been the target of boos and insults during the La Liga opener against Málaga, which he missed on Wednesday because he wasn’t included in Diego Simeone’s roster.

Atlético Madrid has categorically rejected the striker’s request; he continues to train normally with the team, and his compatriot is aware of his desire to leave.

Initially, the “Roji-Blancos” would not consider selling him under any circumstances. Nearly two weeks later, however, the “veto” now applies only to Barcelona. At the same time, according to British media reports, Atlético accepted an offer from Arsenal—an offer that the international forward did not accept, who wants to leave only for Catalonia and the Spanish champions.

Atlético Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín spoke to the EFE news agency, reiterating that the club has no intention of selling Julián Álvarez, while trying to calm the situation following fan reactions.

“We will support Julián and continue to look after him so that he can reach his full potential, because we need him to continue playing at the top level in Europe. Julian hasn’t had the best advisors in his professional career over the past few months,” he noted.

He added: “We cannot allow other clubs and the media associated with them to make decisions for us, to dictate our transfer and competitive strategy, and to show us disrespect. That is exactly what they are trying to do: divide us. It’s clear that we don’t have their power, but we have our values.”

Three hours later, Fernando Hidalgo, the Argentine’s agent, responded sharply via Instagram, taking clear jabs at Hil Marin’s remarks without, however, naming him: “Never ask a liar why he lied. To explain himself, he’ll have to lie again.”

*photo source: AP