Julián Alvarez
ATM
Adds assist
Alvarez assisted once to go with three shots (three on goal) and one chance created in Wednesday's 2-1 loss against Liverpool.
Analysis: Alvarez provided one assist during Wednesday's loss. The striker was back in the starting XI despite some contract disputes with the club, and he immediately showed his quality with an assist for the opening goal. As long as Alvarez remains in an Atleti shirt he will be one of the most valuable attackers in the Champions League.
Starting against Liverpool
Alvarez is in the starting XI for Wednesday's match against Liverpool.
Analysis: Alvarez is in the starting XI for Atletico despite some talks of the attacker being on the bench to start. This comes with the fact that Alexander Sorloth (tear) and Jonathan David (undisclosed) are out, leaving only a few attacking options for the club. This is the forward's first start for the club this campaign after an offseason transfer saga that saw him remain with his Atletico, only previously appearing from the bench twice in league play.
Not expected to start vs. Liverpool
Alvarez isn't expected to start Wednesday against Liverpool in the 2026/27 UCL opener Wednesday, according to manager Diego Simeone. "Alvarez is building up his fitness, I don't think he's ready to start, but I'm sure he'll help us as the game progresses."
Analysis: Following a transfer saga that included a failed move to FC Barcelona in the summer, Alvarez has appeared off the bench in two league matches for Atletico Madrid while tallying two just shots. Expect Alvarez to come off the bench Wednesday as well, but it's worth noting the Spanish club will be weakened in the attack since Alexander Sorloth (tear) and Jonathan David (undisclosed) won't be available. That means Ademola Lookman is expected to continue as the No. 9 for the time being.
Called up for Athletic Club clash
Alvarez (illness) trained very well this week and will be in the squad for Saturday's clash against Athletic Club, according to coach Diego Simeone. "Well, he's training very well, honestly tomorrow he's going to be called up and be part of the group leaving to play in Bilbao, hoping for the best from him like from all his teammates."
Analysis: Alvarez had recently returned to full team training after dealing with difficult days mentally that kept him sidelined, amid a transfer saga linking him to Barcelona that ultimately did not materialize. His inclusion in the traveling squad for the trip to face Athletic Club now confirms he is fully back in the fold as Atletico Madrid moves past the transfer window with him still on the roster.
Trains with teammates Tuesday
Alvarez (illness) trained with his teammates on Tuesday but his expression didn't change, as he continues working alongside the team and recovering his normalcy after his recent absences, just hours before the LaLiga transfer window closes, according to El Desmarque.
Analysis: Alvarez had recently returned to individual training after dealing with difficult days mentally that kept him out of the equation, amid an ongoing transfer saga linking him to Barcelona that appears increasingly unlikely to materialize. His involvement in full team training now, with the window closing imminently, suggests he is set to remain in Madrid regardless of how quiet his demeanor has been throughout the process.
Individually trains
Alvarez (illness) returned to individual training with Atletico Madrid as his move to Barcelona continues to slip, according to Barca Universal, per Marca.
Analysis: Alavrez is back in training with Atletico after an illness kept him out for a few days, although the forward only worked individually. This is amidst his ongoing transfer saga to Barcelona, something that appears won't take place, further encouraged by his participation in training. His future still remains unclear with a few days left in the window, although it appears most likely he will remain in Madrid.
Confirmed absent for Sevilla match
Alvarez (illness) will not be there for Saturday's match against Sevilla, according to coach Diego Simeone, per Diario Sport. "From the club's side, they have been very firm with what they explained about Julian, I hope to help him in the best way possible from the sporting side, Julian will not be there tomorrow."
Analysis: Alvarez had missed recent training due to illness following a difficult night, adding to a situation already complicated by continued speculation surrounding his future at Atletico amid an unresolved potential departure. Ademola Lookman figures to continue leading the line in his absence, and further clarity on Alvarez's status should emerge as the transfer deadline approaches.
Misses training due to illness
Alvarez (illness) did not take part in Atletico Madrid's team training Wednesday after feeling unwell following a difficult night, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Analysis: Alvarez was absent from Wednesday's session due to illness rather than an injury, adding further uncertainty over his availability for the upcoming clash against Sevilla. The forward's situation also comes amid continued speculation surrounding his future at Atletico, with a potential departure still unresolved ahead of the transfer deadline. His availability should depend on how quickly he recovers and whether he can resume training over the next few days, while Ademola Lookman is expected to continue leading the line if Alvarez is unavailable.
Starts on bench Sunday
Alvarez (fitness) is on the bench for Sunday's clash against Villarreal.
Analysis: Alvarez is available from the bench as he continues to work his way back to full fitness, with Ademola Lookman leading the attack from the start. With Alexander Sorloth sidelined, the Argentine provides an important option in the final third and could make an impact if introduced during the second half. Alvarez is expected to see his role increase as his fitness improves, with a return to the starting lineup likely in the coming fixtures.
Included in squad
Alvarez has been called up for Sunday's match against Villarreal, according to manager Diego Simeone. "Yes, he's in the squad [for tomorrow]. He's getting better, but he's still recovering his fitness levels and getting up to speed."
Analysis: Alvarez didn't play in the season-opening win over Malaga, but the striker will be back in the mix against Villarreal. Don't be surprised if he moves straight into the starting lineup since he's the most reliable option Atletico Madrid have to lead the line, especially with Alexander Sorloth (tear) sidelined.
Not ready for Malaga clash
Alvarez (fitness) will not be available for Wednesday's match against Malaga but could be in contention for Sunday's match against Villarreal, according to coach Diego Simeone. "I understand that he still needs a bit more training to be at his best on Sunday, and I also understand that we need to increase his training sessions with him. Why? So that he can be at his best. He's one of our best players, if not the best, offensively."
Analysis: Alvarez has been working closely with manager Diego Simeone's staff to manage his physical condition, with the coach stressing that decisions around his workload are being handled from a sporting standpoint first. Simeone described him as central to how Atletico Madrid are built as a team, citing his power, quality, leadership and overall talent. Alvarez is expected to use the coming days of training to close the gap toward his optimal physical level ahead of the Villarreal match. Ademola Lookman is expected to start up front alongside Arnau Ortiz until Alvarez is back available.
Undergoes preseason medical tests
Alvarez underwent preseason medical tests at the Vithas Madrid Arturo Soria hospital ahead of resuming training with Atletico Madrid, according to Carlos Fernandez of Marca.
Analysis: Alvarez finished last season with 20 goals and nine assists across all competitions for Atletico, before a World Cup run that saw Argentina fall in the final to Spain, closing the tournament with just one goal despite being favored over Lautaro Martinez throughout the competition. His future at the club remains uncertain as speculation continues, and further clarity should emerge as preseason progresses.
Weak performance in loss
Alvarez generated one tackle (one won), one clearance and one interception in Sunday's 1-0 defeat against Spain.
Analysis: Alvarez had a disappointing end to his World Cup participation as Argentina was denied a second consecutive title in the final moments. The striker did plenty of work near the opposing goal, but it only led to one goal during the entire tournament. He was ultimately favored over Lautaro Martinez and recorded meaningful minutes in the decisive rounds. With more opportunities to represent his country likely coming for him in future years, he'll focus on staying in top form at the club level after scoring 20 goals and nine assists for Atletico across all competitions last season.
Three shots in win
Alvarez generated three shots (one on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and one chance created in Wednesday's 2-1 win over England.
Analysis: Alvarez was solid leading the line throughout Wednesday's win, but he failed to get on the scoresheet. His link up play was good throughout the match and he was difficult to handle for the backline. Alvarez will play a huge role as Argentina head to the World Cup final against Spain, with Alvarez likely to lead the line.
Scores extra-time winner
Alvarez scored one goal to go with three shots (one on goal), one cross (one accurate) and two chances created in Saturday's 3-1 win against Switzerland.
Analysis: Alvarez was the match-winner in Saturday's 3-1 extra-time win over Switzerland, breaking the deadlock in the 112th minute by firing a breathtaking long-range curler from 25 yards into the top right corner to end Switzerland's resistance after a punishing war of attrition, also registering three shots (one on target), one cross and two tackles across his 120 minutes. The Atletico Madrid forward sealed Argentina's place in the semi-finals against England and delivered the individual moment of genius the match ultimately required against a Swiss side that had defended with extraordinary discipline after Breel Embolo's red card.
Dangerous throughout match
Alvarez recorded two shots (one on goal) in Tuesday's 3-2 victory against Egypt.
Analysis: Alvarez registered two shots (one on target) across his 89 minutes in Tuesday's 3-2 win over Egypt, denied by Mostafa Shobeir's outstanding close-range stop in the first half when he was through on goal. The Atletico Madrid forward worked tirelessly throughout and was central to Argentina's sustained pressure in the second half, with his late pass triggering the decisive sequence that kept the world champions alive heading into the quarterfinals.
One shot Friday
Alvarez had one shot (zero on goal) and one chance created in Friday's 3-2 victory over Cape Verde.
Analysis: Alvarez came off the bench once again for Argentina, only starting in one match so far this World Cup. He would get 57 minutes of play and recorded a shot, although it was not on target. It waits to be seen if he will start again this tournament, as Argentina's other forward, Lautaro Martinez, failed to record a shot for the second time in a match this tournament on Friday, although he did score in their group stage finale.
Active in rotated attack
Alvarez generated one shot (one on goal) in Saturday's 3-1 win against Jordan.
Analysis: Alvarez registered one shot (one on target) across his 82 minutes in Saturday's 3-1 win over Jordan, working tirelessly as the pressing outlet in Argentina's rotated attack. The Atletico Madrid forward was replaced by Jose Manuel Lopez in the second half, having contributed consistently to a team performance that secured a perfect three-win group stage record ahead of the Cape Verde round of 32 fixture.
Features for 26 minutes
Alvarez recorded one shot on target in Monday's 2-0 win over Austria.
Analysis: Alvarez would not start once again after some injury concerns to enter the tournament, instead coming off the bench for 26 minutes. He would still earn more shots than starting forward Lautaro Martinez, although it was only a single shot. Alvarez will now look to start at Argentna closes out the group stage against Jordan on June 27.
Deemed fit to face Algeria
Alvarez has been cleared of any injury for Tuesday's match against Algeria, according to manager Lionel Scaloni. Julian had an ankle issue, but his recovery has paid off; he is available for tomorrow and is an option."
Analysis: Alvarez is going to return to play Tuesday as Argentina takes the field for the World Cup opener, cleared of any injury worries in his ankle. This will give the team yet another one of their best attackers, adding to an already frightful group. However, the main question is a question Argentina seemingly has to answer every World Cup, as it is unknown who will start at forward, with the battle between Lautaro Martinez and Alvarez.
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