Julian Alvarez: Who Is to Blame and How Does This End?

Julián Álvarez’s future at Atlético Madrid remains unresolved as the club’s fans turned on the 26-year-old after Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal at the Metropolitano. Álvarez was booed throughout, made only 12 touches and had one blocked shot, then was taken off the bench after warming up with less than 30 minutes remaining. He was also absent from three training sessions this week due to an “illness,” and manager Diego Simeone said Álvarez will not travel to face Sevilla on Saturday. Reports in Spain claim he may be suffering from depression, though Atlético has not confirmed details. Barcelona has pushed a €100 million bid and refuses to give up, while Atlético insists Álvarez will honor his contract until 2030 and rejects negotiations.