Barcelona Fined Over Approach for Alvarez
Atletico Madrid complained that Barcelona contacted striker Julian Alvarez without their prior written consent.
Barcelona have been fined 602 euros (£503) after Atletico Madrid filed a complaint regarding the club's contact with striker Julian Alvarez. Atletico accused their La Liga rivals of approaching the Argentina international without first notifying them in writing.
Alvarez, 26, remains with Atletico Madrid, where he has a contract extending until June 2030. The Spanish football association issued the fine. While Atletico also complained to FIFA, the sport's governing body determined it did not have jurisdiction over the matter.
This season, Alvarez has faced boos from his own supporters, though he recently received a standing ovation after scoring the decisive goal against Deportivo La Coruna. That victory brought Diego Simeone's team within two points of league leaders Barcelona. Following the match, Alvarez issued an apology to Atletico's fans for an earlier interview in which he stated his desire to "fulfil his dream" of playing for Barcelona.
"It was a mistake," Alvarez said. "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."
Alvarez transferred to Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in August 2024 on a six-year deal reportedly worth up to £81.5 million. He has scored 51 goals in 115 appearances for Atletico, following 36 goals in 103 games for Manchester City.