Julián Álvarez Included in Atlético Madrid Squad for Villarreal Clash; Romero, Lemar Out

Diego Simeone, the coach of Atlético de Madrid, has included forward Julián Álvarez in the squad for Sunday's match against Villarreal. Álvarez, who recently completed a move from Barcelona, is set to make his debut for the team, though he is expected to begin on the bench. The squad announcement also highlighted the continued absence of several players. Cristian 'Cuti' Romero is still lacking match fitness after joining the pre-season training late following his transfer from Tottenham. Alexander Sorloth is sidelined for the second consecutive league game due to a muscle injury. Midfielder Thomas Lemar and Mexican player Obed Vargas were also excluded from the squad, with reports suggesting they are awaiting transfers to other clubs. This marks Álvarez's first match in the squad since his anticipated move from Barcelona. Simeone has also called up four players from the club's youth academy: goalkeeper Salvador Esquivel, defenders Jorge Domínguez and Dani Martínez, and midfielder Jorge Castillo.