Simeone breaks silence after Atletico fans target Alvarez

Diego Simeone has responded after sections of Atletico Madrid supporters directed whistles and chants towards Julian Alvarez during the club’s opening La Liga victory, with the striker’s future remaining uncertain.

Atletico defeated Malaga 2-0 at the Metropolitano, but Alvarez was the major talking point despite not being included in the matchday squad. The Argentina international was left out amid continued speculation surrounding his future following comments he made during the FIFA World Cup, when he admitted he wanted to leave the club.

Although absent from the pitch, Alvarez remained firmly in the minds of the home supporters. A section of Atletico fans voiced their frustration throughout the match, expressing their anger over the forward’s public desire to seek a transfer.

Speaking after the game, Simeone refused to criticise the supporters and instead stressed that he understood their reaction.

“I have great respect for our people,” the Atletico boss told reporters.

“We are open, as we always say, to specific possibilities. After 15 years, you know I always say that until the transfer window closes, anything can happen. That doesn’t mean I’m talking about any specific individual.”

The Argentine coach avoided discussing Alvarez directly but acknowledged that the remainder of the transfer window could still bring changes to his squad.

Simeone also reiterated his desire to strengthen Atletico before the September deadline, insisting his focus remains on building the strongest possible team for the season ahead.

“We always try to have the best possible tools available,” he added. “Let’s hope we can assemble the best possible squad between now and the end of the transfer window.”

Alvarez has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona in recent weeks, although no agreement has been announced. His omission from Atletico’s opening league fixture has only intensified speculation that his future could be resolved before the window closes.

Atletico now turn their attention to Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Villarreal, while uncertainty continues to surround one of the club’s biggest stars.