Julián Álvarez begins Atlético training, Barcelona hopes fade

Argentina national team forward Julián Álvarez has begun a special fitness program prepared by the Atlético Madrid coaching staff. According to Marca, the player's renewed contact with his club indicates that tensions over his future in the summer transfer window have eased somewhat. Goal.com reports this.

The 26-year-old forward had openly declared during the World Cup that he wanted a new challenge, signaling his intention to leave the club. The situation surrounding him then intensified, with Barcelona becoming the player's main transfer target. However, recent developments are seriously hindering the Catalan club's plans.

Transfer problems and a dispute between the clubs

Although Álvarez is spending the final days of his holiday, he began special individual training outside Atlético's training ground on August 1. The nine-day fitness program designed by the coaching staff is intended to ensure that the player returns for the new season in optimal physical condition.

Relations between the Madrid and Catalan clubs have deteriorated sharply. Atlético's board accused Barcelona of negotiating with the player behind the club's back and filed official complaints with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and FIFA. Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín firmly stated that the capital club would not negotiate with Barcelona under the current circumstances.

Diego Simeone and future prospects

Despite the legal dispute between the clubs, the personal relationship between Julián Álvarez and head coach Diego Simeone remains positive. The player and manager have maintained communication even as transfer rumors reached their peak.

Atlético's board considers Álvarez's agents, rather than the player himself, responsible for the situation. Club officials pointed to Antoine Griezmann as an example, reminding Álvarez how the French forward regained the trust of the fans and the board after disputes involving Barcelona.