Atletico Madrid CEO calls out Laporta over Julian Alvarez pursuit: ‘Part of their own private circus’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez has suffered another major setback after Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin delivered a scathing response to the Catalan club’s continued interest in the Argentina international. 

The latest Barcelona transfer news comes just hours after Joan Laporta confirmed that Barcelona had submitted an offer for the striker.

Speaking to Atletico Madrid’s official media channels, Gil Marin insisted there is no possibility of Alvarez leaving this summer and criticised Barcelona for continuing to fuel speculation despite being informed of the club’s position.

Atletico chief tells Barcelona to end Alvarez pursuit

The Julian Alvarez transfer saga has become the dominant story of Barcelona’s summer window, but Atletico Madrid remain determined to keep their star forward.

Gil Marin revealed that he personally contacted Barcelona president Joan Laporta and urged him to bring an end to the ongoing speculation.

“I know enough about the rival club’s inner circle to realise that they act in front of the media and the fans as part of their own private circus, so it doesn’t offend me.”

Miguel Angel Gil Marin has lashed out at Joan Laporta. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The Atletico CEO then explained that he had made the club’s position unmistakably clear.

“I have a good personal relationship with their chairman, and I explicitly asked him to desist, making it clear that Julián is not for sale. 

“Despite this, they insist on maintaining this stance because it fuels the media and social media circus. They know full well that Julián Álvarez will not be playing for Barcelona next season. 

“What is reprehensible is that they continue to make these claims to their own fans and, worse still, to the player himself.”

Gil Marin defends Alvarez but questions his agent

While the Atletico executive was highly critical of Barcelona’s approach, he was equally keen to protect the reputation of the player himself.

Gil Marin made it clear that neither the club nor its supporters blame Alvarez for the situation.

“We know Julián well, having worked closely with him over the past two seasons, and we have no doubts about his character and his outstanding professionalism.”

Atletico Madrid will not sell Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Instead, the Atletico CEO suggested the striker had received poor guidance during recent months, directing criticism towards his representative, Fernando Hidalgo.

“I believe he has been poorly advised since the end of the season, but I am convinced that his performance and behaviour will continue to be impeccable, in keeping with his reputation as a great player, a good person and an excellent professional.”

Barcelona face difficult task in Alvarez pursuit

Although Barcelona continue to view Alvarez as their priority signing to lead the attack, Atletico Madrid have insisted the Argentina international is not available. 

Public statements from both clubs have only intensified the saga, with little sign of a compromise being reached.

Gil Marin concluded by reaffirming Atletico’s commitment to keeping their star striker.

“The Atlético de Madrid supporters know exactly what they want: committed players who deliver results. 

“Every fan’s dream – and my own – is to see Julián scoring goals and winning titles in our shirt, and I’m sure that’s exactly what will happen,” he said.