Simeone expresses irritation as Alvarez transfer discussions dominate Atleti’s UCL victory.
A discontented Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has responded to rumors regarding the future of his key players after striker Julián Álvarez became the most recent name linked with a departure.
The 26-year-old Argentina international was questioned about reports indicating he is a target for Barcelona, Arsenal, and Chelsea following his two-goal performance in Tuesday night’s 5-2 Champions League triumph over Tottenham.
Some interpreted Álvarez’s unwillingness to definitively dismiss the possibility of a transfer as a sign that it could occur, despite his claims of being content at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
Having witnessed goalkeeper Jan Oblak and France forward Antoine Griezmann also associated with potential moves in recent weeks, head coach Simeone addressed the matter during his press conference prior to Saturday’s LaLiga match against Getafe.
He stated: “Against Bruges, you win and everything is based on Oblak and his save; against Barcelona, you win 4-0 and everything is based on Griezmann leaving; against Tottenham, you win 5-2 and everything is based on Julian Alvarez.”
“I assure our supporters that we are in a good place. I mentioned we would compete, and we will compete.”
Simeone’s squad approaches Saturday’s home fixture having firmly positioned themselves in the Champions League quarter-finals with their convincing victory over Spurs in the first leg of their last-16 matchup – marking a fifth win in six matches across all competitions.
However, they currently trail city rivals Real Madrid by nine points in LaLiga, with leaders Barcelona sitting four points ahead.
Getafe are also in solid form, having secured four wins in their last five league matches, which has placed them in ninth position, although their last success at the Metropolitano occurred in May 2010.
