Barcelona have been fined 602 euros (£503) after Atletico Madrid complained about 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. The Spanish football association issued the fine. Atletico also complained to Fifa, but football’s governing body declared it had no jurisdiction over the case.
Alvarez stays at Atletico
The 26-year-old remains at Atletico, where his contract runs until June 2030.
Alvarez has frequently been booed by his own supporters this season. Some fans, however, gave him a standing ovation after he scored the winning goal against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday. That victory moved Diego Simeone’s side within two points of leaders Barcelona.
Alvarez apologises to fans
Following the win, Alvarez apologised to Atletico’s supporters. He referred to an interview he gave during the summer, in which he said he wanted 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.”
Background
Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in August 2024 on a six-year deal worth up to £81.5m. He scored 36 goals in 103 appearances for City before moving to Atletico. He has since found the net 51 times in 115 games for the Madrid club.