Atlético Madrid Files Complaint with FIFA Against Barcelona Over Álvarez

Atlético Madrid has decided to file an official complaint with FIFA against FC Barcelona, who have reportedly expressed interest in Julian Álvarez. The Blaugrana and Álvarez are keen on a transfer, but Atlético is not pleased with the situation. CEO Gil Marín stated in an interview with the Spanish news agency EFE that Barcelona is belittling the Madrid club and acting without respect. "They think we are weak and foolish," he remarked.

Atlético has faced almost weekly mudslinging from Barcelona. If Barça isn’t the instigator, they are certainly exchanging barbs with their arch-rival Real Madrid, who also had their eyes on Álvarez and made a €150 million bid. Atlético responded with a scathing statement.

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Álvarez himself has expressed a desire to leave, stating on Monday night to ESPN after Argentina's World Cup victory over Austria, "I think a transfer is best for everyone; I want to make my dream come true." Marín expressed regret over those comments, stating, "This was not the day for such statements; it was Messi's day and that of the Argentine national team, not Julian's."

"Julian has a dream, but so do we Atlético fans. It's true that he has spoken with us, but he also knows our position perfectly. We have been very clear: Atlético does not want to give up its rights. He is a fantastic player, and we are very proud to have him on our team," Marín added, firmly stating he does not want to sell the Argentine star to Barcelona.

Atlético will soon file a complaint with FIFA, as they believe the Spanish champions have negotiated with Álvarez during a protected period. "It is our responsibility to defend the interests of Atlético Madrid, and therefore we will file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona. They are lying to us, to the player, to the media, and even to their own fans. They are trying to convince everyone that they can afford a transfer that they cannot actually pay for. Barcelona is disrespectful. They think they can belittle us and that we are weak and foolish," Marín concluded.