Álvarez sparks fresh surprise: official statement reveals the truth

Julian Alvarez was missing from Atletico Madrid training on Wednesday, two days after the Rojiblancos squad were given time off.

Atletico opened their La Liga campaign last Saturday with a 2-2 draw against Villarreal at the Metropolitano.

According to an official club statement published by Spanish newspaper "Marca", the Argentine striker sat out through illness.

Alvarez came off the bench in the 66th minute against Villarreal. His own supporters jeered him.

His absence only deepens the row over his future, which the newspaper says will be settled on 1 September, once the transfer window closes and his destination for the season becomes clear.

Alvarez had already declared his wish to leave Atletico while on duty with Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, a move that angered the Madrid club.

Barcelona lead the chase for the striker, desperate to land him, yet Atletico are digging in and refuse to sell to the Blaugrana.

Diego Simeone's side now turn to their second La Liga fixture, away to Sevilla on Saturday.

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