24 hours before the clash between Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona, Sunday (9 p.m.), the name of Julián Álvarez quickly returned to the table. The Argentine striker had been at the heart of much speculation for a departure to Catalonia. After publicly expressing his desires elsewhere during the 2026 World Cup, the 2022 world champion had maintained a standoff with his management, before finally staying with the Colchoneros. A situation which provoked the anger of some Madrid supporters, particularly on his return to the Metropolitano.
Despite tensions and a complicated start to the season, the former Manchester City player seems to have gradually regained the confidence of his public after several decisive performances and public apologies. And inevitably, the question of possible interest from Barça for the center forward was asked to Hansi Flick. But the German coach did not want to fuel the rumors around the Argentinian international. “For me, Julián Álvarez is a fantastic player, but he plays for Atlético and I have to concentrate on my team”simply replied the technician.
Hansi Flick wants to end Atlético’s streak
A particularly cautious response, while the name of the attacker continues to circulate among the potential leads of the Catalan club. “I don’t like talking about players who play for other clubs. I focus on my own players and I am very satisfied with the current situation of my team. We have many options in attack. I don’t think of anything else.”. Regularly in difficulty against the Colchoneros in recent seasons, with elimination in the Copa del Rey and the Champions League, FC Barcelona intends to put an end to this bad dynamic. Asked about Atlético’s bete noire status, Flick preferred to downplay the importance of previous confrontations.
“It’s in the past. For me, it’s no longer important. What matters is tomorrow’s match. We know that we are facing a formidable team and that we must win to go into the international break at the top of the table. This is why it is crucial to show our strength and quality tomorrow. (…) Every match is crucial. In La Liga, three or four excellent teams are neck and neck in the standings, and of course, winning against Atlético is essential. We will give everything, but the season is still long”he recalled. With the ambition of retaining first place before the international break, Barça therefore has no room for error.
