Atletico chief launches attack on Barcelona over Julian Alvarez pursuit

Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin has accused Barcelona of negotiating with a player who remains under contract and confirming that the club intends to file an official complaint.

Barcelona have not hidden their intention of signing Alvarez this summer but things took a new twist when the Argentine spoke publicly about his decision to leave Atletico.

Alvarez admitted that he would welcome a move away and is eager to fulfil a personal dream.

The Argentina international outburst has now sparked an intense mood in Atletico’s camp. The Spanish side are preparing to take the matter to FIFA.

Speaking to EFE, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Gil Marin revealed that Atletico believe Barcelona have crossed a line in their pursuit of the striker.

Explaining the club’s position, the executive said: “Our responsibility is to defend the interests of Atletico Madrid, and that is why we are going to file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for negotiating with a player who had a valid contract during the protected period.”

Julián Alvarez wants to leave Atletico Madrid this summer. (Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images)

Gil Marin voiced out his frustration over the timing and the nature of Alvarez comments.

“I deeply regret his comments. It wasn’t the right day to make those statements—it was Messi’s day and the Argentine national team’s day, not Julian’s,” he added.

While acknowledging that conversations have taken place between the club and the player, Gil Marin insisted Atletico’s stance has not changed.

“Julian has a dream, and we at Atletico have dreams too. It’s true that he’s spoken with us, but it’s also true that he’s fully aware of our position because we’ve been very clear.

“Atletico doesn’t want to transfer his rights. He’s a great player, and we’re very proud that he plays for us.”

He concluded by lashing out at Barcelona, claiming they’ve disrespected Atletico.

Speaking bluntly, he stated, “Barcelona is disrespecting us; they think they can walk all over us, that we’re weak or stupid.

“But what they’re actually showing the world is a way of acting that defines them.”

“They’re lying to us, to the player, to the media, and they’re also lying to their own fans.

“They’re trying to make everyone believe they can take on a deal they’re actually not capable of handling.

“This isn’t the first time Barcelona has acted this way, and the soccer world is well aware of it.

“Last year, they did something very similar with Nico Williams and Athletic Club,” he concluded.