Simeone backs 26-year-old Alvarez after Atletico fans' backlash

Julián Alvarez, 26, has received public backing from Diego Simeone after Atlético de Madrid supporters turned against the forward during the draw with Villarreal. The Argentina and Italy citizen joined Atlético from Manchester City in the 2024/25 season for €75 million.

Alvarez was subjected to verbal abuse while warming up at the Metropolitano, and the home crowd also jeered when his name was announced before the match. The hostile reception followed his comments during the World Cup that joining Barcelona was his dream for this summer.

Simeone called for the club and its supporters to stand behind Alvarez while he remains an Atlético player. The manager said the team needs quality strikers, described Alvarez as an important part of the squad and argued that the Argentine should be protected through the difficult situation.

The coach also acknowledged that the tension has created an uncomfortable atmosphere around the forward. He said Atlético wanted the best for Alvarez because of what he could contribute, while expressing hope that the dispute would be settled before the end of the season.

The pressure has grown during a summer transfer saga involving Barcelona. Atlético chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín ended negotiations after a June deadline passed without a club agreeing to the €150 million valuation placed on Alvarez.

Atlético are unwilling to sell the striker to a direct La Liga rival, while the deterioration in his relationship with supporters has added to the uncertainty. Arsenal have emerged as possible suitors and have asked to remain informed about Alvarez's situation.

Alvarez remains an Atlético centre-forward, with the club valuing him at €120 million. His transfer history includes moves from River Plate to Manchester City and then from City to Atlético, but Simeone's message is that the immediate priority is to support him within the current squad.