Julián Álvarez diagnosed with depression and out for Atlético de Madrid.
Forward Julián Álvarez is facing a delicate situation at Atlético de Madrid, with the club blocking his potential transfer to Barcelona. According to reports from journalist Juanma Castaño of Rádio Cope, the athlete has been diagnosed with depression. A medical evaluation reportedly confirmed the condition, with official documentation sent to the club’s board.
Absence from training and confirmed unavailability
For the third consecutive day, Álvarez did not report for training this Friday. Previously, Atlético de Madrid had cited the player’s illness as the reason for his absence. Head coach Diego Simeone confirmed in a press conference that the forward will miss the match against Sevilla in La Liga.
Pressure and negative backlash
The tension intensified following last Sunday’s draw against Villarreal. During that match, Álvarez came on in the final minutes and was subjected to intense jeers from the fans at the Estádio Metropolitano. His exit from the pitch—walking off alone while his teammates greeted the fans—highlighted the visible dissatisfaction.
Official statements and recent career path
On Thursday (27), the club’s CEO, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, criticized Barcelona‘s approach in the negotiations and reaffirmed Atlético‘s stance against selling the player. Marín described Álvarez as an exemplary professional, but admitted that the player was:
very confused
by the current scenario.
The forward joined the club in 2024 from Manchester City and quickly became a key piece of the attack before enduring the current period of intense pressure.
The diagnosis and subsequent absence of Julián Álvarez represent a significant blow for Atlético de Madrid, especially at a crucial point in the season.
The situation raises concerns regarding the player’s well-being and the emotional impact of frustrated transfer negotiations and fan pressure—factors that could influence the team’s performance in upcoming La Liga matches.
The club must now cope with the loss of one of its main forwards, while seeking to understand and support Álvarez throughout his recovery.
