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Álvarez Faces Barcelona After Transfer Standoff
8 Nov
Summary
- Julián Álvarez wanted to join Barcelona but stayed at Atlético.
- Atlético rejected a €100 million bid from Barcelona for Álvarez.
- Anthony Gordon has promised to be more selfish in attack for Barcelona.
Julián Álvarez, a player who expressed a desire to leave Atlético Madrid for Barcelona in the summer, is now prepared to face the Spanish champions. Atlético's refusal to transfer the forward to their title rivals, despite a €100 million bid, led to his continued presence at the Metropolitano. Álvarez had previously faced fan backlash for his transfer request but has since apologized and regained form, scoring twice in his last four starts.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, who was interested in Álvarez, acknowledged his quality while focusing on his own squad. Flick also commented on his own summer signing, Anthony Gordon, noting the attacker's promise to be more selfish in front of goal. Flick praised Gordon's ball retention but agreed he could be more direct in 1-on-1 situations. Defenders Eric García and Andreas Christensen are set to return for Barcelona's upcoming match.
In team news, Barcelona will be without Rodri due to a hamstring injury, with Frenkie de Jong or Marc Bernal expected to replace him. Atlético welcomes back midfielder Johnny Cardoso, though Cuti Romero remains sidelined. The upcoming match is crucial, with Barcelona holding a two-point lead over Atlético in LaLiga standings.
