Julián Álvarez Returns to Atlético Squad as Substitute Amid Transfer Speculation

Julián Álvarez is set to make his return to the Atlético de Madrid squad this Sunday, appearing as a substitute in the team's second-round La Liga match against Villarreal. This appearance is particularly noteworthy as it comes after the player expressed his desire to transfer to Barcelona.

Diego Simeone, the Atlético coach, has included Álvarez as a reserve for the game at the Metropolitano stadium. This is the first time the striker has been named in the squad since his transfer request.

Álvarez's absence from the team has been prolonged. His last match for Atlético was on May 5, a Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal. Since then, he has dealt with an ankle sprain suffered on April 29, followed by recovery, participation in the World Cup, and a subsequent vacation. His absence was also noted in the team's first La Liga match last Wednesday against Málaga.