Atletico Madrid forward Julián Alvarez missed training for a third consecutive day on Friday, intensifying speculation about his future as Diego Simeone insisted the player will not be sold to Barcelona. According to Yahoo Sports Canada, Alvarez’s continued absence from the club’s training ground has fueled an ongoing transfer saga during the summer 2026 transfer window.
Diego Simeone Addresses Transfer Chaos
Speaking at a pre-match press conference covered by Yahoo Sports Canada, Diego Simeone addressed the mounting questions surrounding the Argentina international. “I understand that all the questions will be about Julián. The club has been very clear about what will happen,” Simeone told reporters, emphasizing that Atletico Madrid’s boardroom stance remains firm regarding interest from Barcelona.
Atletico Madrid released a strong statement this week rejecting any possibility of a transfer to Camp Nou. Despite reported friction and fan discontent in Madrid, Simeone expressed optimism about reintegrating the 26-year-old forward. “When he returns, we’ll give him everything he needs to feel important,” Simeone added, as noted by Yahoo Sports Canada. “In life, anything can be reversed, as long as we have our health.”
Upcoming Fixture and Squad Impact
Alvarez will miss Atletico Madrid’s upcoming fixture against Sevilla, a side that has won both of its opening matches. Simeone noted that his immediate priority is preparing the available squad for the weekend test rather than dwelling on the ongoing transfer noise. “My focus is on Sevilla, where he won’t be available against an opponent that has won both of its matches,” the manager stated to Yahoo Sports Canada.
While Arsenal has also been linked with interest in the forward, Alvarez remains tied to a four-year contract in the Spanish capital, leaving Atletico Madrid firmly in control of his valuation. Observers and fans await the player’s next move as the transfer window draws toward its close.
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