Julian Alvarez omitted from Atletico Madrid squad for Marseille game

Julian Alvarez has been excluded from the Atletico Madrid squad for their upcoming friendly match against Marseille. The Argentine striker's absence comes amid reports of interest from Barcelona and uncertainty regarding his future at the club.

Alvarez has only participated in five days of physical training with the squad. He reportedly met with head coach Diego Simeone on Wednesday to express his desire to leave Atletico. His representatives have also sought an urgent meeting with chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, who was not in Madrid at the time.

Several other players are also missing the fixture against Marseille. Rodrigo De Paul, Marcos Llorente, and Juan Musso are not expected to travel, as they have only recently joined preseason preparations. Alexander Sørloth remains unavailable due to an injury.

Despite the current situation, Diego Simeone is reportedly still planning to use the 26-year-old as his primary striker. The club's focus now shifts to the La Liga opening fixture against Malaga on August 19.

Atletico Madrid will determine the involvement of their returning international players for the Malaga match based on their fitness levels.