Simeone would welcome Alvarez back to training amidst Barca row

What the report says

Diego Simeone has said he wants Julian Alvarez to feel valued at Atletico Madrid when the forward returns to training, as speculation continues over the Argentina striker’s future. BBC Sport reported that Atletico have made clear they do not intend to sell him to Barcelona, while a possible move to Arsenal has been described as the more likely exit route if he leaves.

Simeone confirmed Alvarez will miss Saturday’s La Liga match away to Sevilla after the player sat out a third straight training session and was said to be unwell. The Atletico manager said he would do everything he could to support Alvarez once he is back with the squad, and added that circumstances can change if a player remains healthy. He also said the club had already been firm and clear publicly about its position.

The uncertainty comes after Atletico issued two statements in 24 hours reiterating that Alvarez would not be allowed to join Barcelona in the coming days. Simeone said he understood why the issue dominated his briefing, but stressed the team must focus on the match and on finding goals collectively. Atletico will also be without injured striker Alexander Sorloth, while new defender Cristian Romero is travelling with the squad but will be eased in gradually. The situation matters because Alvarez was an important scorer last season and his status affects Atletico’s attacking plans.