Julián Álvarez Ruled Out of Sevilla Trip After Missing Three Training Sessions

Diego Simeone confirmed Julián Álvarez will not feature in Saturday's LaLiga game at Sevilla following the forward's three-day absence from training.

Diego Simeone has confirmed that Julián Álvarez will not feature in Atlético Madrid’s LaLiga fixture at Sevilla this Saturday. The Argentina international, who recorded 20 goals in 49 appearances for the Rojiblancos last season, has failed to train with his teammates for three consecutive days as of Friday morning. This absence follows a 2-2 home draw against Villarreal on Sunday, a match where Álvarez made his first appearance of the current campaign as a second-half substitute. During that contest at the Metropolitano stadium, fans whistled the forward before, during, and after play, eventually leading to the player exiting the pitch alone while his teammates remained to applaud the crowd.

Atlético Madrid Rejects Barcelona Interest

The Julián Álvarez transfer saga intensified this week after Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly reiterated his club's interest in signing the forward. Atlético Madrid responded with a formal statement asserting there is a "zero percent chance" of the player joining their LaLiga rivals before the transfer window closes on September 1. The club described themselves as "victims" in the negotiations, claiming they have been "damaged financially and socially" by the ongoing pursuit. Despite these tensions, Simeone stated on Friday that the club has been firm and clear regarding the situation and he expects the player to remain a vital part of the squad once he returns to team activities.

Simeone Plans for Álvarez and Sørloth Partnership

While Álvarez is sidelined for the trip to Sevilla, Simeone emphasized that he views the Argentine and Alexander Sørloth as the specific attacking pair the team requires this season. Sørloth is also currently unavailable due to a muscular problem. When questioned about the characteristics he seeks in a striker, Simeone explicitly named both Álvarez and Sørloth as his ideal profiles. The manager noted that the team must now find collective solutions to score goals in the absence of both primary forwards. Simeone remains optimistic about the player's relationship with the supporters, stating that rapport can be salvaged as long as a person has their health.

Training Absences and Transfer Deadline Pressure

Atlético Madrid previously reported that Álvarez was "unwell" on Wednesday, yet his continued absence through Friday has fueled speculation regarding a forced exit. Simeone maintained a consistent sporting stance during his Friday news conference, expressing a desire to help the forward continue his role as a vital player for the team. The manager denied that the external noise regarding the September 1 transfer deadline has affected the squad's focus, citing recent performances against Malaga and Villarreal as evidence of the group's concentration. Simeone concluded by promising that the club will provide Álvarez with everything necessary to feel important once he resumes training with the first team.