Diego Simeone speaks out on Julian Alvarez behaviour after Arsenal transfer failure

According to a report by Football London on Sunday, October 11, 2026, Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has praised Julian Alvarez’s attitude as the Argentine forward works to regain his place in the team following summer transfer speculation involving Arsenal and Barcelona.

Alvarez was reportedly linked with a £128 million move during the summer transfer window, with Arsenal keen to strengthen their attack under manager Mikel Arteta.

Barcelona also considered signing the 26-year-old, who reportedly missed several training sessions during the final week of the transfer window in an attempt to push through a move to the Catalan club.

However, Atletico Madrid refused to allow the forward to leave, and Alvarez has since returned to contention under Simeone.

The Argentine featured as a substitute in Atletico’s victory over Alaves on Saturday, coming on at half-time as he continued his efforts to secure a place in the starting line-up.

Speaking after the match, Simeone praised the forward’s performance and commitment to the team.

“I thought Julian Alvarez looked good today. He came on with enthusiasm, eager to do well and help the team. He finished the match well.”

The Atletico manager had also expressed confidence in Alvarez’s fitness and determination ahead of the encounter, highlighting the qualities he brings to the team when fully fit.

“I see him in good shape, enthusiastic, and he has the desire to give everything he has, as he always does. When he is in good shape, he gives us a different dimension in attack,” Simeone said.

Despite Atletico’s encouraging start to the season, the Spanish side remain five points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona after eight matches.

Atletico chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin has also made the club’s position on Alvarez clear, insisting in August that the forward remains an important part of their long-term plans.

“Our intention and ⁠my personal dream is for him to stay with us, to remain at Atletico,” Gil Marin said.

He further maintained that Atletico would not negotiate with Barcelona over the striker, highlighting the strained relationship between the two clubs following the proposed transfer.

Alvarez’s return to action will now be important for Atletico as Simeone looks to strengthen his attacking options and keep the team competitive in the race for the La Liga title.

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