Julian Alvarez has missed Atletico Madrid training for a second successive day, with the Argentina forward’s absence attributed to “illness” as uncertainty continues to surround his future at the club.
Alvarez did not take part in Wednesday’s session after Atletico’s players had been given two days off. His continued absence comes at a sensitive point in the transfer window, with the deadline approaching and the player’s preferred destination reportedly Barcelona.
Atletico began their La Liga campaign with a 2-0 victory over Malaga before drawing 2-2 with Villarreal at the Metropolitano. Alvarez was introduced from the bench in the 66th minute of the Villarreal match, but was met by jeers from sections of the Atletico support.
His latest absence has intensified speculation about whether he will remain with the Madrid club this season. His situation is expected to become clearer on 1 September, once the transfer window has closed and it is known where he will play.
Alvarez reportedly expressed a desire to leave Atletico while representing Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. That stance angered the club, who remain determined to keep the forward and have resisted the prospect of selling him to Barcelona.
Barcelona are understood to be Alvarez’s preferred option, while the Catalan club are keen to complete a deal for the Argentina international. Atletico, however, continue to oppose a move to their domestic rivals.
Arsenal interest offers possible solution
Spanish newspaper Marca has reported that Arsenal’s interest in Alvarez could provide a possible way out of the impasse. With the summer transfer window due to close in only six days, the Premier League club’s involvement may offer an alternative to the player’s preferred move to Barcelona.
Atletico are preparing for their third La Liga fixture of the season, away to Sevilla at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan on Saturday. Alvarez’s participation remains uncertain because he has not trained with the squad for the second day in a row.
The forward’s absence therefore leaves Atletico facing questions on two fronts: whether he is fit enough to feature against Sevilla and whether he will still be an Atletico player once the transfer deadline passes.
For now, the club’s explanation is that Alvarez is unwell. But the timing of his absence, combined with his reported wish to leave and the interest from Barcelona and Arsenal, has ensured that his situation remains one of the biggest talking points surrounding Atletico Madrid.
