The novel of Julián Álvarez and Barcelona seems to be heading towards a known conclusion. Amid the rumors that arose during and after the 2026 World Cup and the Argentine forward's intention to change scenery, the president of Atlético de Madrid, Enrique Cerezo, reiterated the club's stance: the Spider is not for sale and will continue in the team managed by Diego Simeone.
"I already said at first that he was not being sold. That he was not being sold, that he was our player and that he is an important piece of our team and, as an important piece, we want him, we like that he is with us and I believe that he will have a magnificent season", Cerezo stated during a press conference.
The executive also referred to the relationship between the forward and the Colchonero fans, after his desire to leave the institution became known. In that sense, he downplayed the possibility that the Spider would have to apologize and expressed confidence that he would quickly regain the support of the fans: "I don't know if he will apologize, but Julián is an excellent person and I am sure, absolutely sure, that he will win the fans back in two matches".
Cerezo reiterated the contractual situation of the former River player and closed his stance with a strong message: "Julián is a player of Atlético de Madrid, he has a contract with Atlético de Madrid, he is training with Atlético de Madrid and he is preparing to have a magnificent and wonderful season".
The president's words coincided with the stance already expressed by Cholo Simeone. During the press conference prior to the Colchonero's debut in LaLiga against the recently Málaga, the Argentine coach publicly supported the attacker and, after Cerezo's statements, considered that the institution's position was clearly defined: "I think that if the owner of the club speaks so clearly as he did, I believe there is no more to say. This is like in trials: there is no case".
