Julian Alvarez will miss Atletico Madrid’s meeting with Real Sociedad on Sunday after being ruled out with a muscular problem, adding to uncertainty surrounding the forward’s future at the club.
Fabrizio Romano reported that the 26-year-old was not even travelling with the Atletico Madrid squad for the latest fixture involving Real Sociedad. The club later confirmed that Alvarez had withdrawn from training the previous day because of a muscle overload.
“Julian Alvarez, out for Atletico Madrid today and not even travelling with the squad,” Romano said.
“Decision due to muscular overload in yesterday's training session.”
Atletico Madrid also issued a statement on social media.
“Julian will not travel to San Sebastian due to a muscle overload that led to his withdrawal from yesterday's training session. After conducting the relevant tests, the medical services have ruled out his participation in today's match.”
The absence comes during a difficult period for Alvarez, who has yet to score this season. He did, however, complete his first full game of the campaign in Atletico Madrid’s 2-1 Champions League defeat by Liverpool on Wednesday.
That appearance could prove to be his last for the club before the January transfer window, with tensions having increased between the striker, manager Diego Simeone and Atletico supporters. Fans have continued to boo and jeer Alvarez, who could now leave the side in the winter window.
Alvarez had wanted to join Barcelona during the summer, but Atletico Madrid refused to consider a deal. The striker was then reportedly focused on a move to Arsenal, although that transfer did not happen after he turned down the Gunners in the final stages of the window.
Barcelona subsequently chose Gabriel Jesus as a cheaper alternative. Arsenal, meanwhile, did not strengthen their attack despite reports that manager Mikel Arteta wanted to bring in a striker.
The latest developments could leave the former Manchester City player in limbo as he waits for the winter window. Arsenal may consider making another approach for Alvarez in January, particularly if the forward remains out of favour at Atletico Madrid.