Julián Álvarez does not travel with Atlético de Madrid and tension grows over his possible departure

Julián Álvarez will not be part of the Atlético de Madrid delegation traveling to France to face Olympique de Marseille. The match will mark a new preparation stage for the team led by Diego Simeone, but the absence of the Argentine forward has gained special relevance due to the uncertainty surrounding his future.

The striker has only been training for five days after his vacation and, initially, it was expected that the players who recently rejoined would not be called up. However, Álvarez's situation has once again brought attention to his future.

Julián Álvarez's desire to play in Barcelona

According to the information released about the situation, the forward reportedly conveyed to Simeone that he does not intend to continue wearing the red and white jersey. Additionally, his entourage has requested a meeting with Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, the CEO of Atlético, to try to find a solution that allows for his departure.

The goal remains to unlock a potential transfer to Barcelona, a club that appears to be the main desired destination for the forward.

Álvarez's stance represents a problem for Atlético, which aims to retain one of its key figures. The coaching staff considers the Argentine a fundamental piece for the sports project, while the player remains firm in his intention to change clubs.

Atlético de Madrid and Simeone await a decision

The call-up for the trip to Marseille excluded Sørloth due to injury, as well as the four internationals who rejoined during this week: Baena, Llorente, Musso, and Julián Álvarez.

Under normal circumstances, the players who recently returned should be available for the official debut in La Liga, scheduled for August 19 against Málaga.