Diego Simeone’s response after Atletico fans target Julian Alvarez over Barcelona links: ‘Very respectful towards…’
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Barcelona’s interest in Julian Alvarez continues to create headlines, with Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone forced to address the situation after his side opened their 2026/27 La Liga campaign with a 2-0 win over Malaga.
The Argentine forward did not feature in the match as he continues working towards full match fitness.
However, even in his absence from the pitch, Alvarez remained one of the main talking points around the Metropolitano.
Barcelona’s interest in the Atletico star has added further tension to the situation.
While the Catalan club are understood to be exploring different options to strengthen their attack, Alvarez remains one of the names linked with a potential move.
Simeone responds after Alvarez is targeted by Atletico fans
During the match, a section of Atletico supporters displayed a banner aimed at the striker and his possible links to Barcelona.
Julian Alvarez did not play against Malaga. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
“Julián, thank you for the respect you’re showing us, you idiot; Barça and your entourage have tricked you like a spoilt child.”
The reaction put Simeone in an awkward position after what was otherwise a positive night for Atletico Madrid.
Simeone faced questions about the chants and banner directed at Alvarez following the final whistle.
The Atletico manager was asked for his view after isolated sections of the support appeared to turn their frustration towards the Argentine forward.
“[I am] very respectful towards our people,” he said, according to MARCA.
Atletico Madrid fans are not sparring Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Rodrigo Valle/Getty Images)
Simeone’s response did not go into detail about the Barcelona links or Alvarez’s future. Instead, the Atletico coach chose to stress his respect for the club’s supporters.
Barcelona continue to assess their attacking options
Barcelona remain in the market for attacking reinforcements following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.
Both sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick have acknowledged that the club is still assessing the market, particularly when it comes to finding the right option to lead the line.
Alvarez has naturally been linked because of his profile, but Barcelona may have now realised that this particular transfer could be out of reach given Atletico Madrid’s position.
For now, the Catalan side is keeping other alternatives under consideration, but even that is proving difficult.