Julián Álvarez faces fan scrutiny and Villarreal test upon return to Atlético

Julián Álvarez faces a crucial test on Sunday as he returns to the Metropolitano stadium, a venue where he hasn't played since April 29. The Atlético Madrid forward is under intense scrutiny, not only due to his expressed desire to join Barcelona, a move now deemed impossible, but also because of Villarreal's formidable presence. Villarreal previously thrashed Atlético 5-1 in their last encounter at the end of the previous season.

All eyes will be on the 23-year-old Argentine, who will be part of the squad but is expected to begin the match as a substitute. His reception by the home supporters is a significant point of interest, with a potentially hostile reaction anticipated whether he plays or watches from the bench. Álvarez missed the previous game against Málaga due to a lack of physical rhythm but is now deemed ready to gradually return to competition.

Amidst the transfer saga of the past two and a half months, the fan reception is the only remaining uncertainty for Álvarez, whose transfer is officially closed. Atlético's CEO, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, reiterated the club's commitment, stating, "We are going to help Julián and continue to take care of him so that he can give us his full potential, because we need him to continue competing among the great teams in Europe."

Álvarez has been the central figure of the summer transfer window, both for Atlético, who demonstrated their determination to keep him especially after Antoine Griezmann's departure, and for Barcelona, whose pursuit of the striker culminated in a €100 million offer spread over six installments. This offer, made two and a half months ago by the player's agent, Fernando Hidalgo, and Barcelona, was rejected by Atlético. The club even filed a complaint against Barcelona for alleged contact with a player under contract until 2030 with a €500 million release clause, leading to disciplinary proceedings by the Royal Spanish Football Federation.