Julian Alvarez rejoined Atletico Madrid’s squad on Wednesday, ending a brief absence that had cast doubt on his availability for the upcoming La Liga fixture. The Argentine forward, who missed Tuesday’s training session due to a fever, participated in the full group workout at the Majadahonda training complex.
Diego Simeone’s side is currently navigating a congested schedule, making the availability of their marquee summer signing vital. Alvarez, signed from Manchester City for a deal worth up to €95 million, has been tasked with anchoring the Atletico attack alongside Antoine Griezmann and Alexander Sørloth. His sudden illness had triggered concerns within the coaching staff, particularly given the team’s current reliance on his mobility in the final third.
While the medical staff monitored his temperature and recovery overnight, the 24-year-old showed no lingering symptoms as he moved through high-intensity drills this morning. His return provides a significant boost for Simeone, who has been searching for greater consistency in his offensive transitions during the opening weeks of the campaign.
The striker’s integration into the system remains a work in progress. Despite his pedigree, Alvarez has had to adjust to the specific tactical demands of the Wanda Metropolitano, where defensive discipline is as prized as goal-scoring. His ability to press from the front—a hallmark of his time in England—has already endeared him to the home support, though he is still finding his rhythm in front of goal.
With his health status now resolved, Alvarez is expected to be included in the traveling squad for the weekend. Whether he starts or provides an option off the bench remains at Simeone’s discretion, but the return of a key attacking outlet offers the manager much-needed tactical flexibility.
For Atletico, the focus now shifts entirely to the pitch, where maintaining momentum is the only priority.
