Another noteworthy development in the Julián Alvarez-Atlético Madrid saga played out in the aftermath of the club’s latest outing on Saturday.
Diego Simeone’s troops were of course back in action this evening, welcoming Villarreal to the Metropolitano for a La Liga showdown.
A tense atmosphere was noted throughout, after the aforementioned Alvarez, amid ongoing transfer links with Barcelona, was targeted with heavy boos and whistles by his side’s own fans ahead of kick-off. The Argentine, in taking to the pitch during the 2nd-half, was then the subject of a harsh reception once more.
Following the full-time whistle in an entertaining 2-2 draw, widespread focus then centered on Alvarez’s decision not to join his teammates in applauding the home crowd.
At the time, as much was interpreted as something of a defiant stand on the part of the former Manchester City man.
Post-match, however, Atlético Madrid headmaster Diego Simeone revealed that this was in fact not the case. Drawn on the situation by the media during a press conference, the tactician explained:
“The club staff told me that the club decided Julián should not go over with his teammates to greet the fans, and that it was not Julián’s decision.
“The club made the decision to keep him away and have him head to the dressing room.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
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