Alvarez's Leap: Atletico Madrid Bets on Elite Status as Arsenal Clash Looms
20 October 2025
Alvarez’s Rise and Atletico’s Bid to Keep Him Happy
Julian Alvarez has cemented his place as a starter at Atlético Madrid, but the Spanish club still needs to convince the Argentina forward that he belongs among Europe’s elite and that his ambitions can be matched by the club.
The upcoming Champions League clash with Arsenal is a perfect test of their true strength.
Under Diego Simeone, Atlético have not tasted defeat in six matches across all competitions since a stoppage-time setback against Liverpool in September, a rare sign of consistency for a side chasing trophies.
A late goal from Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk left Atlético frustrated and, after a slow start to the season, Alvarez has responded by upping his level.
Rumors have swirled that Barcelona could target Alvarez next summer to replace the aging Robert Lewandowski. Alvarez has avoided a direct denial, saying ‘people talk a lot’ when asked about the reports.
From City to Atlético: A-ha moments and European Tests
Alvarez joined Atlético in summer 2024 from Manchester City for around $100 million, and he scored 29 goals in his first season, signaling a high ceiling.
As Antoine Griezmann’s influence waned, Alvarez took charge of the attack, especially in the second half of the season, helping Atlético recover form and push European ambitions.
He faced a controversial missed penalty against neighbor Real Madrid in the previous CL round, a loss that contributed to a difficult campaign, but the club rebuilt in the offseason and Alvarez stepped up again.
In recent fixtures, he netted a hat-trick against Rayo Vallecano, then struck twice against Real Madrid in a 5-2 derby win, and followed up with a goal and an assist in a big 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt, restoring Atlético’s European momentum.
Before this run, Alvarez had reportedly clashed with Simeone, who sometimes substituted him late in games; Alvarez later clarified that the reports were not accurate and that he did not criticize his coach.
However, after some tension and renewed talk of Barcelona’s interest, Simeone made Alvarez’s happiness a priority, saying: “Julian is exceptional, fully committed to the team and the club.”
Guardiola previously praised Alvarez after their time together at Manchester City, noting that he had to compete with Erling Haaland and that he’s now thriving at one of Europe’s top clubs, with a world-class coach and teammates around him.
As for Barcelona’s rumored pursuit, Sport reported that the Catalan club see Alvarez as a primary target for 2026, though financial hurdles could be significant. With Lewandowski’s contract ending and potential wage-space opening, Barça may revisit the deal, but signing him remains a delicate financial puzzle.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s summer activity was modest, and Barça must weigh salaries against long-term plans as they eye Alvarez’s future with a club that now looks like a real European contender.
What does this mean for Atlético? It means Alvarez’s future could hinge on whether the club can back him with silverware, and whether he can deliver elite performances against a club like Arsenal in the Champions League.
Two punchlines are coming—one for the bench, one for the board:
Punchline 1: If Atlético keeps winning, Simeone might finally start charging admission to watch his own managerial genius—free seats, because the fun is on the pitch.
Punchline 2: Arsenal should bring extra patience, because Alvarez’s form could cut through their defense like a hot knife through butter—watch this space.
