MADRID — The transfer saga surrounding Argentina forward Julián Álvarez has escalated into a formal legal dispute, with Atlético Madrid confirming its intention to file a complaint with FIFA against FC Barcelona.
The announcement follows Álvarez’s public declaration on Monday, June 22, after Argentina’s 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria. The 26-year-old forward stated that he wished to leave Atlético to "fulfil his dream," remarks that have been widely interpreted as a signal of his desire to join Barcelona.
Atlético Alleges Breach of Transfer Regulations
Atlético Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín revealed the club's decision to pursue action through football’s governing body, citing what he termed as "improper conduct" by Barcelona.
"Our responsibility is to defend the interests of Atlético Madrid, and that is why we are going to file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for negotiating with a player under contract during the protected period," Gil Marín stated in an interview with EFE.
Under FIFA regulations, clubs are prohibited from initiating transfer negotiations with a player currently under contract without the explicit permission of their parent club. With Álvarez’s contract at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano running until June 30, 2030, and protected by a €500 million release clause, Atlético asserts that Barcelona’s approach constitutes a clear breach of these rules.
Read Also: Julián Alvarez Signals Desire to Leave Atlético Madrid Amid Barcelona Interest
Club Leadership Blasts Barcelona’s Tactics
Gil Marín expressed profound frustration, not only with Barcelona's alleged approach but also with the timing of Álvarez’s comments. He criticized the player for making his transfer request during Argentina’s World Cup campaign, stating, "I deeply regret his words. It wasn’t the day for that. It was Messi’s day, Argentina’s day—not Julián’s."
The CEO also launched a broader attack on Barcelona’s recruitment practices, drawing parallels to their unsuccessful attempt to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Club last year. "They lie to us, to the player, to the media, and they lie to their own fans," Gil Marín added. "They try to make everyone believe they can afford a transfer they’re not actually capable of."
Firm Stance on Retention
Atlético Madrid has maintained that its position remains unchanged: the club has no intention of selling the Argentine international. Despite interest from other clubs, including Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, Atlético continues to insist that any interested party must trigger the player's €500 million release clause a figure currently considered prohibitive.
As the 2026 World Cup continues, Álvarez remains focused on the tournament, while both clubs prepare for what is expected to be a contentious legal battle before FIFA.
