Alvarez apologises for Barcelona comments after scoring Atletico winner
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Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez said during the 2026 World Cup that he “wanted to fulfil his dream” of playing for Barcelona.
PHOTO: REUTERS
- Julian Alvarez scored the winner as Atletico Madrid beat Deportivo La Coruna 1-0 and moved within two points of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
- He apologised to Atletico fans for saying at the World Cup that he wanted to play for Barcelona, which caused anger and a transfer dispute.
- Alvarez said he hopes hard work and humility can repair the relationship, while Atletico sit second on 25 points before Real Madrid visit Barcelona.
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MADRID – Julian Alvarez gave Atletico Madrid supporters a winning goal and an apology on Oct 24, sealing a 1-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruna before seeking forgiveness for declaring his desire to play for Barcelona.
The Argentinian striker scored for the second successive match as Atletico moved within two points of La Liga leaders Barca, then addressed the comments that had soured his relationship with fans at the Metropolitano.
“I’d like to apologise to our fans for what I said at the World Cup. It was a mistake in terms of how I said it and the timing,” Alvarez told Spanish broadcaster Movistar Plus.
“I understand why the fans are angry. If I were a fan, I’d be angry too. Especially given how they’ve supported me since I arrived.”
He said during the 2026 World Cup that he “wanted to fulfil his dream” of playing for Barcelona, triggering a transfer dispute that stretched through pre-season and the summer window as Atletico refused to sell to their rivals.
Regularly booed at home this season, Alvarez received a standing ovation from some supporters after his goal.
“I hope that with hard work and humility, I can turn this situation around,” he said.
“I’ve been feeling better in recent matches, both physically and on the ball. I want to help the team and give my best.”
Second-placed Atletico have 25 points. Real Madrid, third with 21, visit Barcelona at Camp Nou on Oct 25 for the season’s first Clasico. REUTERS