Atlético Madrid refuses to negotiate sale of Júlian Alvarez to Barcelona
A public dispute between the executives of Atlético Madrid and Barcelona has escalated over the future of the Argentine forward, highlighting deep institutional friction within Spain’s top football division.
Atlético Madrid has categorically ruled out selling forward Júlian Alvarez to Barcelona, with chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín accusing the Catalan club of unethical conduct in its pursuit of the player.
Speaking to Spanish broadcaster Movistar Plus, Gil Marín stated that the club’s board and shareholders are united in refusing to negotiate with their La Liga rivals. He described Barcelona’s approach as lacking transparency and professionalism, pledging that the player would "never, ever" be transferred to them.
Barcelona vice-president Rafa Yuste condemned the remarks as a lack of manners and respect, stating that Atlético’s executive had crossed a red line. This public escalation follows comments from Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who maintained on Wednesday that his club remained very interested in signing the 26-year-old.
The dispute has complicated the professional standing of Alvarez, who was recently booed by Atlético fans during a 2-2 home draw with Villarreal. This follows his statement while on World Cup duty with Argentina this summer, where the forward revealed a desire to depart the club to fulfil his dream.
Gil Marín noted that the player is currently confused and struggling personally and professionally due to the surrounding deception. Although Arsenal has been linked with a move for the former Manchester City player, Atlético’s primary objective is to retain him beyond the summer transfer deadline.
The chief executive emphasized that if a departure becomes unavoidable, the club will seek an alternative buyer, but Barcelona remains entirely excluded from any negotiations. This stance underscores the severe governance friction impacting player asset stability in the Spanish football market.
On-field developments
The transfer standoff occurs alongside Barcelona’s on-field activities, as the club secured a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club in their first home match of the new La Liga season. Raphinha opened the scoring after a Pedri through ball, and Fermin López sealed the win by capitalizing on a defensive error from a Karim Adeyemi cross.
The match also featured squad adjustments by manager Hansi Flick, who handed Anthony Gordon his full debut and brought in Pau Cubarsi and Pedri. New signing Rodri started on the bench before replacing Raphinha to make his first appearance for the club.
Rodri expressed satisfaction at joining the squad, telling Dazn it was important to regain his rhythm and adapt to the team after a long summer. He affirmed his happiness at being where he wanted to be and emphasized the need to continue working.
