Barcelona fined 602 euros by Spanish FA over Julián Álvarez approach

The sanction

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) has closed its case against Barcelona with a fine of 602 euros, imposed on Tuesday, 27 October. Atletico Madrid complained that Barcelona approached Julián Álvarez, an Argentine striker under contract at the Madrid club until June 2030, without first notifying Atletico in writing. The penalty was issued under Article 133 of the federation's regulations. La Vanguardia notes that the rule allows a fine of up to 602 euros for a minor offence, and reads the amount as a sign that the federation considered the breach light. The Independent gives the fine as £503.

The complaint and its timing

Atletico's complaint rests on a rule requiring a club that wants to sign a player under contract to inform that player's club in writing before starting talks. Atletico said Barcelona made contact with Álvarez without doing so. The sources date the complaint differently. La Vanguardia says Atletico filed it on 23 June with the RFEF and FIFA, while Telegraaf and Interia say the case was opened in July.

FIFA, which Atletico also approached, declared it had no jurisdiction and cannot intervene or open a file, according to the Independent and La Vanguardia. La Vanguardia also reports that Barcelona made a 100 million euro offer for the striker, which never led to a completed deal. Interia adds that media reported in late July that the notice had reached Barcelona.

Álvarez's season and apology

During the 2026 World Cup, Álvarez said he wanted to fulfil his dream of playing for Barcelona, a remark that set off a transfer dispute through the summer window. Atletico kept him, and a move to Arsenal that was also linked over the summer did not materialise. Home fans booed him frequently this season, although the Independent describes a thawing relationship after he scored.

On Saturday, 24 October, Álvarez scored Atletico's winner against Deportivo La Coruña, his second successive match with a goal. The victory moved Atletico within two points of LaLiga leaders Barcelona, and sections of the crowd gave him a standing ovation. After the match he apologised for expressing his desire to join the rivals.

“It was a mistake. I understand why the fans are angry. If I were a fan, I'd be angry too.”

He added that the supporters had given him generous backing, which he said he valued.

What comes next

The RFEF decision closes the case the federation opened after Atletico's complaint. La Vanguardia reports that FIFA cannot take the matter further, so the federation's ruling is the only outcome issued so far. Álvarez remains under contract at Atletico until June 2030. Atletico sit within two points of Barcelona in the LaLiga table after the weekend win.