Atlético Madrid Fall to Athletic Club as Julián Alvarez Endures Difficult Return

Julián Alvarez's return to Atlético Madrid brought little relief. The forward came off the bench in a 3-0 defeat to Athletic Club at San Mamés, then endured loud whistles from Atlético supporters as he entered the match.

Athletic took control through three goals. Nico Williams scored in the 46th minute, Robert Navarro doubled the lead two minutes later, and Oihan Sancet completed the victory in the 90th minute. The Basque side's efficiency secured all three points on a difficult night for Atlético.

Alvarez returned to the squad after missing the previous match because of what the club described as indisposition. Some reports, however, pointed to severe depression linked to the frustration of a proposed transfer to FC Barcelona and the subsequent rejection he faced from Atlético supporters over his reported intention to leave.

The Argentina forward started on the bench and replaced Lee Kang-in in the 59th minute. The reaction from the stands was immediate, with the jeers continuing as he entered. After the final whistle, television cameras focused on Alvarez as he walked toward the dressing rooms in visible sadness.