Julian Alvarez has become a pivotal player for Atletico Madrid, yet the club must still demonstrate to the Argentine star that they belong among Europe’s elite and can meet his goals.
The Rojiblancos face last season’s semifinalists, Arsenal, in the Champions League on Tuesday, offering a prime opportunity to test their resolve.
Diego Simeone’s team has not lost in six matches across all competitions since their last-minute defeat by Liverpool at Anfield in September.
Virgil van Dijk’s stoppage-time goal left Atletico with a familiar sense of disappointment, worsening their poor domestic start following a trophyless 2024/25 season.
Subsequent days saw renewed speculation that Barcelona might sign the striker next summer as a replacement for veteran Robert Lewandowski.
“People always talk,” remarked Alvarez, neither fueling the rumors nor dismissing them entirely.
Alvarez joined Atletico for 85 million euros ($99 million) from Manchester City in the summer of 2024, scoring 29 goals in a strong debut season.
As Antoine Griezmann’s influence waned, Alvarez took charge, especially in the second half of the season.
The striker had a controversial penalty disallowed in the shoot-out against Real Madrid in the Champions League last 16, leading to Atletico’s exit and a subsequent season collapse.
The club restructured this summer, and although it took time to find their momentum, Alvarez has elevated his performance.
The 25-year-old scored a hat trick against Rayo Vallecano in a 3-2 win and netted twice in a 5-2 triumph over Real Madrid, Atletico’s fierce rivals.
He also scored and assisted twice as Atletico crushed Eintracht Frankfurt 5-1 in their second Champions League match, regaining their European stride.
Before this successful run, Alvarez seemed frustrated with Simeone, who often substituted him before matches ended.
Alvarez later clarified that lip-readers misinterpreted his comments, denying any criticism of his coach.
Following Alvarez’s outburst and Barcelona links, Simeone prioritized keeping the striker content.
“Julian is an extraordinary player, committed to the team and club, giving his all, and we are thrilled to have him,” said the coach.
“We must take good care of him so he remains with us for years to come.”
‘I’d love to have him’
Simeone acknowledged Alvarez as Atletico’s “best” player, a rare deviation from his usual team-first philosophy.
Alvarez’s performances also impressed his former coach Pep Guardiola, who praised him last week.
“Julian competed with Erling (Haaland), which was extraordinary for us. Now he’s with one of the best teams, Atletico Madrid, with a top coach and teammates, performing incredibly well,” said Man City boss Guardiola.
“I’d love to have him back… but I understand (his departure).”
The striker won two Premier League titles and the Champions League during his two stellar seasons at City.
Alvarez will face few defenses tougher than Mikel Arteta’s Gunners at the Emirates.
Playmaker Alex Baena’s return from injury boosts Atletico and Alvarez, who already demonstrated a promising connection with the summer arrival as Simeone’s team narrowly beat Osasuna 1-0 on Saturday.
Baena had a goal disallowed for offside against Griezmann following a fine Alvarez assist, hinting at a fruitful partnership ahead.
Keeping Alvarez happy requires showing they can defeat teams like Arsenal en route to silverware.
