Atletico Madrid’s unveiling of their new home kit for the 2026-27 season has generated unexpected discussion, with much of the focus falling not on the players featured in the campaign, but on one notable absentee.
The club presented their traditional red-and-white striped shirt with Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, Giuliano Simeone and Alex Baena taking centre stage.
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However, the absence of Julian Alvarez has become a talking point, especially given the uncertainty surrounding his future.
With Barcelona continuing to monitor the Argentine forward’s situation, fans have interpreted his omission from the promotional material as another indication that his long-term future at the Metropolitano remains unresolved.
Alvarez left out of Atletico’s jersey launch
The decision not to include Alvarez in Atletico Madrid’s kit launch has inevitably attracted attention.
While there are several players who were not selected for the promotional photos despite remaining part of Diego Simeone’s plans, Alvarez’s case carries extra weight because of the transfer speculation surrounding him.
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The striker’s future has become one of the biggest stories of the summer after his recent comments expressing a desire to leave Atletico.
Barcelona transfer news has consistently linked the Argentine international with a move to Camp Nou, with reports suggesting that the player views Barça as his preferred destination.
Atletico Madrid, however, are unwilling to sanction a transfer to another Spanish side and have no intention of strengthening a direct rival in the fight for major trophies.
That position significantly complicates any potential Julian Alvarez Barcelona deal.
Alvarez wishes to leave Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
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The 26-year-old remains under contract until 2030, giving Atletico a strong negotiating position and limiting Barcelona’s chances of finding an affordable agreement.
So what now?
The Julian Alvarez Barcelona links have intensified in recent weeks, particularly after reports emerged indicating the striker wants to fulfil his ambition of wearing the Blaugrana shirt.
Barcelona continue to regard the Argentine as one of the most attractive attacking options available on the market, but the financial aspect remains a considerable obstacle.
Atletico Madrid do not want to negotiate with Barcelona, while the Catalan side are not prepared to trigger his €500 million release clause.
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For that reason, alternative destinations are beginning to emerge, but the fact that he wishes to play for Barcelona gives the Blaugrana an added advantage.
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