Simeone hopes Julian Alvarez can turn turmoil into gains

Simeone hopes Julian Alvarez can turn the turmoil of recent months into gains and get back on track at Atletico Madrid. Simeone discussed the striker's recent situation, including his desire to leave and join Barcelona, at a press conference.

After the transfer window closed, Julian stayed at Atletico Madrid, resumed normal team training, and was included in the squad for Saturday's match. Simeone said he still needs the player, and this experience may help the forward reflect on some issues and begin a new stage at the club.

Simeone said: "For me, life is full of opportunities. Now Julian has the opportunity to sort things out. Many times we spend too much time judging others, and we should focus less on that and learn more. I hope this matter can help him gain something."

Julian's future has been one of Atletico Madrid's biggest topics recently. The forward was reportedly said to have expressed a dream of playing for Barcelona, which also created a tense atmosphere behind the scenes for a time. However, the club did not let him leave. Now, the Argentine forward needs to regain confidence on the pitch and win back the support of fans. For Simeone, the best response is goals.

Julian joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024 and quickly became one of the team's most important attacking focal points. The Argentine player is under contract with the club until 2030 and remains a key member of the squad.

With the transfer window closed and his future destination clarified, Simeone hopes the forward can move past the issue. The coach did not continue to amplify the controversy, instead emphasizing that Julian still has opportunities to prove his value again.

The possibility of Julian leaving also highlighted the gap between several major clubs in Spain. Atletico Madrid finished behind Barcelona and Real Madrid in last season's La Liga title race, and they still need to work to close the gap in the new season. For Simeone, the task remains competing with those two giants.

Simeone said: "What has happened over the past 15 years will not change. Real Madrid, Barcelona, and other teams are all trying to close the gap."