Atletico Madrid rules out Julian Alvarez for Sevilla match amid blocked Barcelona transfer

Training absences and squad selection for Sevilla

Diego Simeone confirmed on Friday that Julian Alvarez will not travel with Atletico Madrid for Saturday's match against Sevilla at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium, scheduled for 21:30. The 26-year-old forward missed his third consecutive collective training session at Majadahonda after submitting a medical certificate citing indisposition and depression, opting instead for individual workouts. His absence leaves Atletico without natural center-forward options ahead of the matchday three encounter. Striker Alexander Sorloth remains unavailable due to a muscle injury suffered in pre-season, while center-back Robin Le Normand is suspended following a red card in the second league fixture. Defender Cristian Romero, signed from Tottenham for 40 million euros (£34.2 million), will travel with the squad but is not expected to start.

Board rejection of Barcelona transfer proposal

The conflict between player and club centers on a 100 million euro bid submitted by Barcelona, which Alvarez sought to accept. Atletico Madrid issued two formal statements over a 24-hour span affirming that the board of directors voted unanimously against any negotiation with the Catalan club. In their statement, directors maintained that Barcelona failed to conduct transfer talks in a professional, ethical, and respectful manner. Atletico chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin discussed the situation following the Champions League draw in Monaco, noting that outside parties had deceived and confused the Argentine forward. Alvarez signed a contract with Atletico through 2030 that includes a 500 million euro buyout clause, giving the club total control over his contractual status.

Simeone stance on player reintegration

Addressing reporters during Friday's press conference, Simeone maintained that the club had communicated its position clearly and that his primary duty involves helping Alvarez on the pitch once he returns. He dismissed suggestions that dressing-room morale had deteriorated, pointing to positive performances in recent matches against Malaga and Villarreal.

From the moment he returns to training, I will do everything I can to make him feel important.

The manager stated that strained relationships between players, clubs, and supporters have previously been repaired, comparing the situation to past instances across European football. Simeone reiterated that sporting form and personal well-being can be rebuilt through daily training.

In life, anything can be reversed, as long as we have our health.

Tactical alternatives and market deadline

With five days remaining before the summer transfer window closes, Arsenal remains the leading candidate should Alvarez complete a move away from Spain. Within the current squad, Simeone has explored non-traditional attacking setups to compensate for the missing strikers against a Sevilla team that has won its first two league fixtures. Ademola Lookman has operated in the forward line during early matches, while Giuliano Simeone has emerged as a secondary candidate to lead the attack. Club officials have ruled out sales to domestic rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid, limiting the player's potential destinations exclusively to foreign clubs willing to negotiate terms before the deadline.