Alvarez returns to Atletico squad for Saturday match

Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has confirmed that forward Julian Alvarez will rejoin the squad for Saturday's La Liga match against Athletic Bilbao, following a summer transfer saga that saw the player push for a move away from the club. The 26-year-old Argentine international, who arrived at Atletico from Manchester City in the summer of 2024, had expressed a desire to leave, with Barcelona reportedly being his preferred destination. Atletico Madrid, however, refused to sell Alvarez to their La Liga rivals, despite significant interest. The transfer window closed with the forward remaining at the Spanish club. Simeone stated that Alvarez has been training well and expects his best performance, comparing the situation to a learning experience. "Life is full of opportunities, and this is one presented to Julian to adjust to many situations in his life," Simeone told reporters on Friday. "We spend all our time learning, and unfortunately, a great deal of time judging. We all judge we need to judge less and focus more on learning." Alvarez missed Atletico's recent league matches against Sevilla and was reportedly booed by some fans during a previous home game.