Atletico Madrid supporters have protested outside the club’s training ground and demanded Julian Alvarez leave after the Argentina forward expressed a desire to move to Barcelona.
Fans displayed banners reading “Julian out”, alongside a crossed-out number 19, in a clear sign of their anger towards the 26-year-old. The protest was reported by Goal and follows a hostile reaction during Atletico’s opening La Liga fixture against Malaga.
Supporters directed insulting chants at Alvarez during that match, with the atmosphere reflecting growing frustration over his reported wish to leave the Madrid club. His position has become a source of tension between the player, the fans and Atletico’s hierarchy.
Alvarez has made his desire to join Barcelona known openly. However, Atletico have indicated they are not prepared to negotiate his sale, despite the forward’s reported preference to move away from the club.
The Argentine remains under contract at Atletico until June 2030. That long-term agreement has strengthened the club’s position and underlined its intention to retain him rather than enter discussions over a transfer.
Head coach Diego Simeone has also said he is counting on Alvarez. Simeone explained that the forward’s absence against Malaga was solely because of his physical readiness, rather than a decision connected to the transfer situation.
Atletico expect Alvarez to be available for their match against Villarreal on 23 August. His potential return will be closely watched after the public disagreement over his future and the reaction from sections of the club’s support.
The training-ground protest marks the latest development in a dispute that has moved beyond private discussions. The banners directed at Alvarez and the reaction during the Malaga game show the depth of feeling among Atletico supporters, who have made clear that they do not want the forward to remain while he is seeking a move to Barcelona.
For Atletico, the situation presents a difficult balance. The club have made it clear they do not intend to negotiate over the player, while Simeone continues to regard him as part of his plans. Alvarez’s contract also extends for several more seasons, leaving the Madrid side with a firm basis for its stance.
The immediate focus will now be on whether Alvarez features against Villarreal on 23 August and how he is received by the supporters. His involvement would provide an indication of his short-term role under Simeone, although the underlying disagreement over a possible move to Barcelona remains unresolved.
