Atletico Madrid legends weigh in as Julian Alvarez pushes for Barcelona move: ‘Can’t find a player like him these days’

Atletico Madrid legends weigh in as Julian Alvarez pushes for Barcelona move: ‘Can’t find a player like him these days’

The growing uncertainty surrounding Julian Alvarez’s future continues to dominate headlines in Spain, with the Atletico Madrid striker’s desire to join Barcelona becoming one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.

While Atletico’s hierarchy has repeatedly insisted that the Argentine is not for sale, the speculation refuses to die down. 

For now, Barcelona remain strongly linked with the forward, and reports surrounding his wish to leave the Metropolitano have only intensified the debate.

As a result, several respected figures connected to Atletico Madrid have publicly addressed the situation, offering a more understanding perspective on Alvarez’s position despite the club’s firm stance.

Atletico teammate shows understanding

It must be remembered that Atletico president Enrique Cerezo recently made his frustration clear regarding the endless questions surrounding Alvarez’s future. 

However, not everyone associated with the Madrdi-based club has approached the topic with the same rigidity.

Julian Alvarez continues to be linked with Barcelona. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)

One of those is Marcos Llorente, who admitted that his close relationship with Alvarez makes him view the situation from a personal standpoint rather than a purely sporting one.

“Because of the relationship I have with Julian, I want him to do whatever makes him happiest or brings him the most joy. As a friend, I’ll support him.”

Godin and Forlan’s verdict

The discussion has also drawn reactions from two of Atletico Madrid’s most respected modern-day figures: Diego Godin and Diego Forlan.

Neither former star openly encouraged Alvarez to leave, but both acknowledged the realities of modern football and the importance of player commitment.

Notably, Godin highlighted the importance of a player’s desire to remain at the club.

“Fernando Torres said it the other day. At Atletico, you have to want to stay. Not just stay, but want to stay. I hope Julián stays. 

Forlan has offered his opinion on Alvarez’s links with Barcelona. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

“I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I hope he wants to stay. He is a brilliant player. 

“You can’t go out and find a player like Julian these days. I don’t know what sort of fee it would take…”

Meanwhile, Forlan admitted it would be a significant loss if Atletico were to part ways with the Argentine striker, while also recognising the professional realities players face during their careers.

“It’s a shame, but people have to understand that we’re professional players. It would be a shame (if he left), but someone else will come along.”

In conclusion, Forlan praised Alvarez’s development in recent years, adding,

“I’ve been watching him since he was at River Plate and then at Manchester City, and here he’s grown and improved a lot.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo