Tensions have escalated between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona following comments surrounding the future of Julian Alvarez, with Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil launching a scathing attack on the Catalan club.
Speaking to Spanish news agency EFE, Gil accused Barcelona of showing a lack of respect toward Atletico Madrid and attempting to create the impression that they can secure a deal for Alvarez despite Atletico’s clear position that the player is not for sale.
According to Gil, Barcelona’s conduct reflects a pattern that has previously affected other clubs. He referenced the situation involving Nico Williams and Athletic Bilbao last year, claiming that Barcelona has a history of publicly discussing players who remain under contract elsewhere.
The Atletico chief expressed disappointment over recent comments involving Alvarez, arguing that the timing was inappropriate and distracted from celebrations surrounding Argentina’s national team and Lionel Messi.
Gil acknowledged that Alvarez had discussed his future with Atletico but insisted that the club’s stance remains unchanged.
“Atletico does not want to sell,” he stated firmly.
The CEO went further by accusing Barcelona of misleading supporters and the wider football community regarding their ability to complete the transfer.
He alleged that the club was attempting to convince the public that it could finalize a deal that, in reality, may not be financially or practically achievable.
In a dramatic escalation, Gil revealed that Atletico Madrid intends to file a complaint with FIFA, claiming Barcelona’s actions have crossed acceptable boundaries in transfer dealings.
The dispute adds another chapter to the growing rivalry between two of Spain’s biggest clubs and could become one of the most closely watched transfer sagas of the summer.
For now, Atletico Madrid remains adamant that Julian Alvarez is not available for transfer, while Barcelona’s interest continues to generate headlines across the football world.