Julian Alvarez apologizes to Atletico fans after Barcelona transfer saga

Stuttgart, Germany - October 20: Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid celebrates after scoring his team's first goal with teammates during the UEFA Champions League 2026/2027 match between Stuttgart and Atlético de Madrid at Arena Stuttgart on October 20, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images) | DeFodi Images via Getty Images Julian Alvarez has apologized to Atletico fans for his words during World Cup 2026 when he said a transfer out of the club would be the best thing.The Argentine was pursued by Barcelona during the summer transfer window but couldn’t complete a move and has stayed with Atletico instead.After scoring the winner against Deportivo on Saturday, the forward had a few things to get off his chest.“First, I wanted to say a few words, I wanted to apologize to our fans for my words during the World Cup. They were a mistake on my part, both in how I said them and the timing, and above all because I understand people’s anger. As a fan, I would have been angry too, especially considering how they’ve supported me all this time. Even in these last few weeks, they’ve been very generous, and I really appreciate that,” he said. “Now I have to focus on working, on continuing to improve my performance alongside the whole team, whom I want to thank because they have contributed so much to me during all this time. So, it’s time to get to work because we have very important things to do with the team.”Alvarez’s future continues to be talked about, although Barcelona sporting director Deco has hinted the club are no longer interested in the Argentine by saying “Julian is in the past.”