Julián Álvarez Jeered by Atlético Madrid Fans as Transfer Saga Continues

Julián Álvarez remains at the centre of Atlético Madrid's ongoing transfer saga.

While Atlético Madrid's season kicked off in conventional fashion with a 2-0 win against Málaga on Wednesday, it took only hours before the focus of all discussion was directed away from the pitch and onto a group of fans who chanted a vulgar insult at Julián Álvarez.

Atlético Fans Turn on Álvarez After Málaga Win

A portion of supporters seated in the south stand of the Metropolitano stadium chanted a vulgarity featuring Álvarez's last name in a chant at the end of the match. No one else in the stadium joined in. While there was no evidence of banners or organized protests, this was simply an isolated chant from a group of ultras.

When asked about it, coach Diego Simeone responded with brevity. "I am very respectful towards our people," he stated before immediately answering another question without elaborating.

Atlético Madrid supporters at the stadium as frustration grows around Julián Álvarez's future.

Atlético Madrid Fans Jeer Julián Álvarez After Málaga Win

It is the latest development in the souring relationship between Álvarez and Atlético Madrid fans. During the World Cup in June, Álvarez told ESPN that he had requested Atlético to release him, arguing that his departure was the best outcome for both sides.

The comments outraged a certain group of fans who burned his jersey while the supporters' association of Atlético accused him of treason.

Barcelona and Real Madrid Offers for Álvarez

Barcelona are reportedly the most persistent suitors for Álvarez. President Joan Laporta confirmed that they made a bid that was evaluated at approximately €100 million. However, Atlético Madrid declined the offer. Real Madrid also had a €150 million offer rejected by Atlético.

Meanwhile, Atlético has insisted on multiple occasions that nothing less than full €500 million release clause will do the job of getting rid of their star striker.

Julián Álvarez remains at the centre of transfer speculation involving Atlético Madrid and Barcelona.

Álvarez's Atlético Future Remains Uncertain

However, the situation may be changing now. According to reports from ESPN, Barcelona has frozen their pursuit of Álvarez as of now, exploring options for alternative strikers although the possibility of return for the Argentine hasn't been ruled out. It seems like the Barça may try signing Álvarez in winter as well.

Álvarez was not featured in Atlético Madrid's first game of the season. When asked about it, Simeone noted that it is not a punishment of sorts. Álvarez returned from the World Cup Final for Argentina, who lost to Spain, later than the rest of his teammates and was unfit for a game. Simeone gave no guarantee that the player would be part of the team for Sunday's match against Villarreal.

Neither Atlético, nor LaLiga made any comment on the issue.

What Wednesday showed once again is that the frustrations among the Metropolitano crowd are very real, however they are shared by a minority of the fanbase. Most of the Atlético fans stood behind Álvarez throughout his two-year stint at the club.