Mateu Alemany ends Julián Álvarez speculation: "We expect him in the next match"

Mateu Alemany has moved to end the noise surrounding Julián Álvarez. Atlético de Madrid's director of professional football, speaking ahead of the LaLiga clash with Sevilla at the Sánchez Pizjuán, hinted at some weariness over an issue that has dominated the club's transfer agenda. His message, however, was firm: Atlético are not considering selling the Argentine striker and expect him back for the next league fixture.

• Mateu Alemany tells everyone to move on and points to Atlético's official stance.
• The club expects Julián Álvarez to be available for the next LaLiga match.
• Miguel Ángel Gil Marín already made clear during the Champions League draw that the player will not join Barcelona.
• Alemany spoke with the striker during training and described the situation as normal.

Atlético's stance on Julián Álvarez remains rock solid

Atlético de Madrid have moved quickly to shut down any speculation about a possible transfer of Julián Álvarez to FC Barcelona. Rather than feeding the debate, Mateu Alemany referred to the words of CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, who during the Champions League draw was categorical: the World Cup winner with Argentina remains part of the club's project.

The Balearic executive stressed that both the board and Gil Marín have been clear and emphatic on this issue. Atlético's position has not changed at any point, and all signs suggest the striker will return to full training this week.

A difficult few days for the Argentine forward

Julián Álvarez went through a tricky spell recently, as Alemany himself confirmed. The player was not feeling at his best, but he already took part in the latest training session with relative normality. That is a positive step toward an immediate return.

The conversation between the two during the session helped ease tensions and confirmed there is no deeper problem with the Argentine international. The aim is for him to regain sharpness as soon as possible and make himself available to the coaching staff.

The plan is crystal clear. He had a few days when he did not feel well. Yesterday he trained and we hope he reintegrates quickly and is available for the next LaLiga match.

Atlético vs Sevilla at the Pizjuán: a demanding test

Atlético visit a Sevilla side that tends to be strong at Nervión, a ground that has historically made life difficult for the Madrid club. Having Julián Álvarez available would provide a major boost in confidence and tactics, although his involvement will depend on how he feels over the coming days.

The Argentine forward has become one of the key pieces of the attacking setup since arriving at the club. His movement, link-up play and goalscoring instinct fit perfectly into Diego Pablo Simeone's plan, and he has been taking on more responsibility as the season progresses.

What Julián Álvarez staying means for Atlético

Keeping Julián Álvarez strengthens Atlético de Madrid's push for a competitive squad across all competitions. After a major investment to secure his services, the club always saw the striker as a pillar for the present and the future. Any offers for him would not alter the roadmap laid out by the sporting department.

The message from Alemany and Gil Marín also serves to protect the dressing room from transfer noise. In a January window full of rumors, the squad receives a clear signal that key players will not leave mid-season, a stability the team needs as it fights for LaLiga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

Gil Marín's words at the Champions League draw set the tone

The CEO's comments provided the framework for Mateu Alemany's message. Gil Marín cleared up any doubts about the operation and made it clear that Julián Álvarez will not wear Barcelona colors in this transfer window. Internal communication flows in the same direction: calm and full confidence in the Argentine's performances.

Frequently asked questions about Julián Álvarez and Atlético Madrid