Arsenal target Julian Alvarez was loudly jeered by Atletico Madrid supporters on Sunday as uncertainty continues over the Argentina international’s future.
The 26-year-old returned to Diego Simeone’s squad for the 2-2 draw against Villarreal after weeks of transfer speculation, with Arsenal continuing to monitor his situation.
However, his first appearance of the new La Liga campaign was played against an increasingly hostile backdrop at the Metropolitano.
Atletico fans make Julian Alvarez feelings clear
Alvarez was named among the substitutes against Villarreal, but the reaction began before he even entered the pitch.
Reuters reports that the forward was heavily booed by Atletico supporters as his name was announced, during the warm-up and again when he was introduced in the 66th minute.
Spanish outlet AS described the initial reception as a thunderous chorus of whistles, with supporters unhappy over the uncertainty surrounding Alvarez throughout the summer.
He was unable to change the game after coming on, although Atletico eventually rescued a 2-2 draw through a late Giuliano Simeone goal.
Arsenal continue to wait on Alvarez situation
The supporter reaction does not represent a breakthrough for Arsenal, but it adds another layer to an increasingly uncomfortable situation in Madrid.
ReadArsenal reported on Saturday that Alvarez had started to soften his stance towards a potential move to Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta maintaining contact during the summer.
That followed reports that Arsenal could be prepared to spend more than £100million to revive their pursuit.
Barcelona have remained Alvarez’s preferred destination, while Atletico continue to insist they want the forward to stay.
Sunday’s reception does not change either club’s position.
It does, however, underline how strained the situation has become with little more than a week remaining before the transfer window closes.
For Arsenal, the next meaningful development must still come from the negotiating table rather than the stands.
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