Julian Alvarez apologises to teammates over transfer request

Julian Alvarez has issued an apology to his teammates at Atlético Madrid. The 26-year-old Argentine forward admitted to his error in the dressing room at the Cívitas Metropolitano after his public attempt to force a move to Barcelona caused tension within the squad.

The controversy began during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. While on international duty with Argentina, Alvarez made public statements expressing his desire to leave Madrid to join the Catalan club. This occurred as Argentina moved toward the final, where they eventually lost 1-0 to Spain in extra time on July 19, 2026. Alvarez played 102 minutes during that final.

Alvarez has promised his colleagues that he will maintain full professionalism. He stated he will give his all on the pitch for Diego Simeone's team if the move to Barcelona does not happen. This follows significant internal friction caused by his transfer request.

Barcelona have attempted to secure the striker with a €100 million offer. Although Atlético president Enrique Cerezo rejected the first bid, the financial package remains on the table. The Catalan side is seeking the former Manchester City player to bolster their squad.

Alvarez joined Atlético Madrid in 2024 in a club-record €95 million deal. Before moving to Spain, he won the 2022/23 UEFA Champions League and consecutive Premier League titles with Manchester City between 2022 and 2024. His international career includes winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa América.