Julian Alvarez’s winning goal in Atletico Madrid’s weekend victory was followed by something more unusual at the Metropolitano: an apology.
Having spent the summer pushing publicly for a move to Barcelona, the Argentina international used a post-match interview to say sorry to the supporters he had unsettled. Simeone backed him publicly within hours.
“I value very much the moment of asking for forgiveness because it is not easy,” the Atletico head coach told reporters.
“Julian is a humble, hard-working boy who loves his teammates, and I appreciate his apology.”
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Within 48 hours, the sporting consequence followed. Atletico, according to reporting from TeamTalk on Monday, have told both Arsenal and PSG that Alvarez is not for sale when the window opens.
Arsenal rebuffed again
Mikel Arteta’s recruitment team had kept contact alive after the summer, when sporting director Andrea Berta turned down an approach for a player Atletico valued at between €140m and €150m, according to Caught Offside.
Arsenal’s need has only grown since. Bukayo Saka limped off after ten minutes of the Champions League draw at Bayern Munich on 21 October with a thigh injury that could keep him out until December, leaving Arteta short of attacking options.
The Gunners’ interest predates Saka’s setback. Alvarez rejected a Premier League return in the summer window, according to Goal, with his focus fixed on Barcelona.
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Luis Enrique’s emergency plan dies
Paris Saint-Germain are the January contender created by circumstance. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during the 4-2 Champions League home win over Barcelona on 21 October, with the Georgian forward set for surgery and effectively out for the season.
Ousmane Dembele and Marquinhos were also hurt in the same match, thinning Luis Enrique’s attack further. The PSG coach had been linked with a move for Alvarez as cover, but TeamTalk reported he is unwilling to sign the Argentine purely as a temporary stand-in.
Barcelona watch from the sidelines
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, the destination Alvarez himself has said he prefers, remain the backdrop. Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin was unambiguous during the summer that a move across to a direct La Liga rival would not happen under any circumstance.
Simeone’s side host Sevilla next in La Liga. Alvarez is expected to lead the line.
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