Atletico Madrid chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin has announced that the club will not negotiate under any circumstances with FC Barcelona over the transfer of Argentine forward Julian Alvarez. Speaking to broadcaster Movistar+ on Thursday following the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League league phase draw, Gil Marin stated that the striker will not be allowed to join their Spanish rivals.
The decision comes after FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta spoke publicly on Wednesday to reaffirm his club's interest in the player, who is nicknamed La Arana. Gil Marin expressed indignation over Barcelona's approach, saying Atletico was disgusted by what he described as falsehood, a lack of ethics, a lack of transparency, and a lack of professionalism.
Player distress and transfer stance
Gil Marin stated that Alvarez is currently going through a very difficult situation personally and professionally. He said people had taken it upon themselves to deceive and confuse the player, leaving him in a deeply distressed state.
The chief executive expressed regret over the situation, noting that he has worked with Alvarez for a long time and considers him a great person, professional, and footballer. Reports indicate that Alvarez has missed two consecutive days of training due to an indisposition.
Gil Marin made clear that Atletico's firm position is not to open negotiations with FC Barcelona. Supported by his management team, he cited his more than 30 years of experience in football and gave his word that Alvarez will not be transferred to the Catalan club while he is in charge.
Future options and club ambition
Gil Marin emphasized that Atletico's primary intention and his personal dream is for Alvarez to remain at the club. He noted that competing against major European teams requires top-tier players, asserting that Alvarez remains essential to Atletico's ambitions.
However, Gil Marin acknowledged that if Alvarez concludes that staying at Atletico Madrid is incompatible with his career, the club will explore alternative options. He reiterated that any potential transfer destination would never be FC Barcelona.
Atletico Madrid competes in Spain's La Liga and regular UEFA Champions League campaigns, while FC Barcelona remains one of their primary domestic title contenders.
