Jan Oblak has acknowledged that the Julian Alvarez situation creates an awkward atmosphere, yet the forward retains backing from his colleagues at the Spanish club. The Argentine striker has been heavily associated with a departure from the capital, with the north London outfit showing significant interest in acquiring him.
Simeone omitted the forward from the matchday squad for their opening La Liga fixture but included him among the substitutes for their fixture against Villarreal on home soil. He entered the pitch for the closing 24 minutes as the side, reduced to 10 men, secured a late equaliser.
Following the match, while his teammates acknowledged the home crowd’s applause, Alvarez faced loud jeering and booing as he made his way off the pitch accompanied by club staff. Oblak subsequently addressed the matter and the hostile response directed at the player.
He told broadcasters that the team must remain united. Julian is present, he forms part of the squad and while he remains at the club, they will back him and wish him well. He described it as an uncomfortable circumstance for everyone involved, but expressed hope that the matter resolves and by season’s end they can all be satisfied.
When questioned about the whistling directed at Alvarez and what counsel he might offer, Simeone responded that he is not there to advise. His responsibility is to focus on his duties, which from a competitive standpoint, means delivering his best for the club. He stated that if they aim to win trophies, unity is essential, they require forwards, and quality forwards at that. Achieving this demands collective effort regarding their requirements.
The Argentine coach further disclosed that those above him made the choice to prevent Alvarez from approaching the supporters. He explained that club officials informed him the decision was made at boardroom level that he should avoid the stands and supporters. Keeping him separate and directing him straight to the dressing room was the club’s call.
Atletico hold no intention of selling to their Catalan rivals and would apparently only consider a sale to the London side for a fee exceeding nine figures. The English club seems unlikely to meet such demands, though a potential record-breaking sale of Martinelli to the Saudi outfit could provide the necessary resources to table an acceptable proposal should the Alvarez situation become unsustainable.