Atletico's Simeone Adopts Guardiola's Approach on Alvarez Amid Barcelona Transfer

Julian Alvarez has found an unexpected ally in Atletico Madrid's coach Diego Simeone as he pursues a transfer to Barcelona, with Simeone refusing to let the player's desire become a disruptive issue within the team.

The Argentine striker's transfer to Camp Nou appears complicated, as Atletico Madrid is handling the matter with strictness and has declined to respond to Barcelona's initial offer of 100 million euros. Tensions between the two clubs have escalated recently, evident in sarcastic messages posted by Atletico's official account, interpreted as a direct response to Barcelona's actions.

Barcelona recognizes that the key to advancing the deal lies with Alvarez himself. Any public declaration by the player expressing his wish to leave would strengthen Barcelona's negotiating position, although the approaching World Cup has made Alvarez cautious so far.

According to Spain's "Sport" newspaper, Simeone's stance is decisive. While he agrees with Atletico's management on seeking maximum financial return, he has adhered for years to an unwritten rule: no place in his squad for a player who is not fully committed to the project.

This principle mirrors the one Pep Guardiola applied before leaving Manchester City, when he allowed Bernardo Silva to move to Barcelona despite Silva's importance, believing a player unwilling to stay should not be forced.

Therefore, Simeone will neither pressure to facilitate the transfer nor obstruct it. If Alvarez insists on leaving, the coach will be the first to call for a resolution, as he does not want a player at Atletico whose focus lies elsewhere.