Julián Álvarez ends Fernando Hidalgo partnership after Barcelona move collapse
Julián Álvarez has ended his professional relationship with representative Fernando Hidalgo after his proposed summer move to Barcelona broke down.
What we know
- The split ends a partnership that began during Álvarez’s early years at River Plate and continued through his time at Manchester City.
- Álvarez had called for a departure after Argentina’s World Cup win over Austria, saying a transfer would be best for all involved.
- Atlético Madrid refused to entertain Barcelona’s approach, with the reported €100 million offer falling far short of the striker’s €500 million release clause.
- Chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín said in August that people around the player had “misled and confused” him.
- Atlético’s board believed outside advisers, rather than Álvarez himself, were behind the push for an exit. The dispute strained his connection with supporters in Madrid.
Next step: Alavés trip and a fight for minutes
Atlético return to La Liga on Saturday away at Alavés, with Álvarez aiming to put the transfer drama behind him.
The Argentina forward missed early training through illness and has played four times for Diego Simeone this league campaign. He has yet to register a goal or assist in 85 minutes.
His immediate target is regular selection, improved form and a stronger commitment to Atlético after the representative split.
