Simeone Defends Alvarez Amid Goal Drought as Transfer Speculations Heat Up

Julian Alvarez has scored only seven times in La Liga this season and is currently experiencing a nine-game goalless streak, as Atletico Madrid aims to challenge rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid for the league title. The 25-year-old has found the net in just four of his 20 league appearances, yet head coach Diego Simeone continues to express confidence in his abilities.

In a press conference ahead of Sunday’s match against Mallorca, Simeone was asked whether fans should still believe in Alvarez. He emphatically defended his compatriot, stating: “Seriously? Are you seriously asking me that? The truth is that Julian Alvarez speaks for himself, given the reputation he has, the authority he commands, and the career he’s built, right?”

Despite his current goal drought, Alvarez is anticipated to start when Atletico hosts the relegation-threatened Mallorca at the Wanda Metropolitano.

This inquiry into Alvarez’s form comes amid speculation regarding his potential exit this summer. Barcelona is reportedly interested in the forward, who has a staggering £433 million release clause in his contract, as they consider replacements for Robert Lewandowski, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Arsenal is also said to be monitoring Alvarez as they contemplate a summer move. While his release clause is substantial, reports suggest Atletico would consider offers around £86 million for the former Manchester City player. Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, has close ties with Alvarez following his transfer from City to Atletico in 2024.

The Gunners already have a strong attacking lineup that includes recent addition Viktor Gyokeres, alongside Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. However, both Havertz and Jesus have only recently returned from injuries. Gyokeres, who joined from Sporting CP last summer, has struggled to justify his hefty price tag, scoring just five league goals this season, and he was benched in favor of Jesus during the recent 3-1 victory over Inter Milan.

In midweek, Jesus, who has been linked with a potential move back to Brazil, scored twice in Milan, while Gyokeres managed to net his third Champions League goal of the season as a substitute.

For the first time this season, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has a fully fit squad available for Sunday’s clash against Manchester United. After concerns about Havertz’s fitness, he was seen training on Friday alongside defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie, leaving only youth player Max Dowman as the confirmed absentee.

Arsenal is eager to return to winning form against United at the Emirates Stadium, particularly after being held to consecutive draws against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. Fortunately for the Gunners, both Manchester City and Aston Villa have dropped points recently, allowing Arsenal to maintain a seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table as they strive for their first title in over 20 years.