Julian Alvarez vows to win back Atletico Madrid supporters after transfer controversy

Julian Alvarez has apologised to Atletico Madrid fans after scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Deportivo de La Coruna, acknowledging that he understood why they had been angered by his previous comments about a possible move to Barcelona.

The Argentina striker produced a composed display at the Wanda Metropolitano, where he was named player of the match after converting a fine pass from Grimaldo. His goal was his second of the week and his first in the league at Atletico’s home stadium.

Alvarez had become the focus of one of the most debated transfer stories of recent windows after appearing to suggest during the World Cup that he wanted to leave Atletico Madrid to pursue his ambition of joining Barcelona.

Following the win, he addressed the club’s supporters directly and accepted responsibility for the way he had spoken.

“I want to apologise to our fans for my words,” Alvarez said. “I was wrong in the way I spoke and in the timing of those comments. I understand their anger. If I were in their position, I would have felt angry too, especially because of the support they have always given me.”

The 1-0 victory came in a match where Atletico struggled to produce a high level of attacking quality, but Alvarez was effective in his movement between the lines and stood out as the team’s most influential forward.

He said the backing he had received in recent weeks had strengthened his determination to improve.

“The past few weeks have been full of support, and now I need to focus on developing and getting better,” he added. “They have stood by me throughout this period, and it is time for me to work hard because we have very important things ahead.”

Alvarez also said he was feeling stronger both physically and technically after his recent appearances.

“I feel that I am in good condition, and I am grateful to my team-mates, who have supported me and stood by me so much,” he said. “I am working to improve, and in the last few matches I have felt progress physically and in the way I use the ball.”

The striker linked his improved performances to his state of mind away from football, saying that personal wellbeing could have a direct effect on what happens on the pitch.

“When you feel satisfied in your life, it is reflected in your performance on the pitch and in everything else,” Alvarez said. “We spend a lot of time at home, and everything that happens affects us. But I now feel that I am in a good place and ready to compete for everything.”

He ended by saying he hoped Atletico’s supporters would gradually restore their faith in him.

“We hope to win their affection again through hard work and humility, and to thank them for everything they have given us during this period,” Alvarez said.