Julian Alvarez faces hostility from Atletico Madrid fans as transfer window enters final week

Backlash at the Metropolitano

Home supporters at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium turned against Julian Alvarez during Atletico Madrid's 2-2 draw with Villarreal. The 26-year-old Argentine forward, who started on the bench after missing the season-opening victory over Malaga, was whistled when his name was read over the public address system and jeered during his warm-up. Whistles intensified when Alvarez entered the pitch in the 66th minute, accompanied by chants from sections of the stadium demanding his departure. Atletico played with ten men following a 76th-minute red card for Robin Le Normand before Giuliano Simeone scored a late equaliser.

At the final whistle, club staff instructed Alvarez to head directly to the dressing room rather than join teammates in saluting the stands. Alvarez walked across the pitch alone as a scarf thrown from the stands landed near his feet, which he bypassed on his way down the tunnel. Manager Diego Simeone confirmed the instruction came directly from club hierarchy to prevent further confrontation.

The club decided he should not go near the stands or the fans. It was the club's decision to keep him away and separate him, so he could go to the locker room.

The summer transfer standoff

The hostility stems from comments Alvarez made on 22 June following Argentina's World Cup victory over Austria, where he stated that a transfer would be best for all parties so he could fulfil his dream. Barcelona subsequently submitted an offer of approximately 100 million euros (116 million dollars), which Atletico rejected immediately. Atletico officials reported Barcelona to FIFA over allegations of an illegal approach. Alvarez arrived from Manchester City in 2024 for 50 million euros on a contract running through 2030, recording 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 appearances.

Despite Barcelona stating that they have moved to other targets, Arsenal have also maintained interest in Alvarez, monitoring developments ahead of the 1 September transfer deadline. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo reiterated that the club has no intention of selling the striker.

I said he wouldn't be sold, he's our player and an important part of our team. We like that he's with us and think he will have a magnificent season.

Reintegrating into the squad

Teammates and coaching staff have publicly defended Alvarez, acknowledging the strain caused by the transfer speculation. Goalkeeper Jan Oblak noted that the situation remains uncomfortable for everyone involved while pledging full dressing-room support for the forward. Manager Diego Simeone previously stated that the tactical plan involves building the team around Alvarez's quality and offensive output.

Unhappily, this situation isn't comfortable for anyone.

Former goalkeeper Santi Cañizares stated on Spanish radio that Alvarez's relationship with supporters could be repaired through on-pitch performances once the transfer window closes. With Atletico resisting all bids and the deadline approaching on 1 September, Alvarez is expected to remain in Madrid and work toward rebuilding his standing with the fanbase.