Barcelona attacker Lamine Yamal acknowledged the quality of Julian Alvarez, who has decided to stay on at Atletico Madrid despite interest from the Blaugrana as the summer transfer window draws to a close.
Alvarez, 26, has been with the Rojiblancos since arriving from Manchester City in the summer of 2024. He has struck 49 times in 107 games across competitions and also registered 17 assists.
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Despite being contracted with Diego Simeone’s side till 2030, Alvarez had expressed interest in joining the Blaugrana. However, Atletico refused to sanction a move to a direct domestic rival, so the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner eventually decided to remain at the Wanda Metropolitano.
“Well, I think we’re in a very good state right now, and that’s clear,” Yamal said (as per SPORT) when asked about Alvarez. “We’re not short on goals. It’s obvious he’s a great player, but I’m very happy with the squad we have.”
Instead of their top target Alvarez, Barca eventually settled for Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal in the closing days of the transfer window in a deal reported to be worth €10 million. The Brazilian arrives on a three-year contract after spending four seasons at the Emirates, winning the Premier League last campaign.
What’s next for Barcelona?
Barcelona have made a superb start to the season as they look to complete a La Liga three-peat for the first time since 2011, when they won three straight league titles under Pep Guardiola.
Hansi Flick’s side opened their title defence with a 5-0 shellacking of Elche last month, with summer signing Anthony Gordon shining with two assists, while Raphinha and Fermin Lopez bagged braces.
The Blaugrana then beat Athletic Club Bilbao 2-0 at home, with Raphinha and Lopez scoring again, before getting the better of Rayo Vallecano 5-2, also at home, with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal bagging braces.
Barca are next in action at Valencia on Sunday (September 6) as they look to continue their winning run and stay atop the La Liga standings. Three days later, they open their UEFA Champions League campaign at Feyenoord at home.
Edited by Bhargav
