Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone stated he will "do everything" he can to make forward Julian Alvarez "feel important" at the club, as speculation continues regarding his situation.
Simeone confirmed Alvarez will not be available for Saturday's La Liga game against Sevilla, as he is not in good health and has missed three consecutive training sessions. "From the moment he returns to training, I will do everything I can to make him feel important," Simeone said.
The club has publicly reiterated its stance that Alvarez will not be permitted to join Barcelona. Simeone acknowledged that questions about Alvarez's situation are expected to dominate his news conferences, but emphasized that the club has been "forceful and clear" in its statements.
"I'm still in the same position, hoping, from a sporting point of view, to be able to help him in the best way so that he continues to be the very important player he is for us," Simeone added. "Julian will not be there [on Saturday] against Sevilla."
Atletico will also be without injured striker Alexander Sorloth, leaving them with fewer attacking options. Simeone acknowledged Sorloth's absence, stating, "He's very important for us," and that Alvarez's current situation "has much more impact."
Despite the uncertainty, Simeone rejected concerns that it could affect his squad. "Honestly, no," he said. "The boys are working very well... The team played good matches against Malaga and Villarreal and we are focused on playing a good match [against Sevilla]."
New defender Cristian Romero, who joined Atletico from Tottenham for 40 million euros, will travel with the squad. However, Simeone noted that Romero "needs time to find his best form and we will not speed up the time to rush him."