Earlier today, reports emerged claiming that FC Barcelona target Julian Alvarez had told his teammates that he regretted his recent behaviour as he sought to leave Atletico Madrid and had apologised.
However, according to reports in Argentina from those close to the player’s camp, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, the reality is quite different.
Far from being regretful, the 26-year-old striker feels deceived by Atletico, and Argentine sources claim that his public comments during the World Cup were made at the club’s request.
Furthermore, MD adds that Alvarez is expected to take further steps over the coming days as he continues trying to find a way out of Atleti and pursue his desired move to Barcelona
Atletico asked him to speak publicly
Growing frustrated. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
According to Martin Arevalo, the journalist who interviewed Alvarez during the World Cup, Atlético’s directors told Julián that if he wanted to leave, he had to say so publicly.
The striker had already expressed his desire privately, but the club wanted him to make his position known publicly so supporters would understand that the decision was coming from the player rather than the club.
Meanwhile, he adds that Diego Simeone does not want to become directly involved in the decision. The coach knows what Alvarez wants, but ultimately the final decision rests with Atletico’s leadership.
As per Arevalo, the Argentine “cannot stay another minute” at the club because he no longer feels comfortable with the situation.
Julian still wants a change
According to the report, Alvarez’s position remains that he wants to leave. He feels that he is now stuck at a club where he never expected to remain under the current circumstances.
Still fixated on leaving. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Although the situation appears to be in a state of tense calm publicly, movement is continuing behind the scenes.
And, with the striker feeling emotionally drained by the entire situation, there may be further steps taken from him and his camp in the coming days to secure an exit from Atletico Madrid and sign for Barcelona.
The Blaugrana, for their part, remain patiently waiting for their priority target, refusing to change their plans and move for an alternative.