Atlético Madrid legend Diego Godín has strongly criticized Julián Álvarez, describing the forward’s attempt to force a move to Barcelona as a “stab in the back” for the club’s supporters.
Álvarez caused a major storm during the 2026 FIFA World Cup by publicly pushing to leave Madrid for their La Liga rivals Barcelona.
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While Atlético ultimately stood firm and blocked the transfer, refusing to negotiate with their direct rivals, the saga strained the Argentine’s relationship with the fanbase, who have subjected him to jeers and boos.
Speaking on Onda Cero’s Radioestadio Noche, Godín didn’t hold back regarding how the situation played out.
“It’s a very complicated situation, as it’s been like all summer, it’s not easy to handle. Seeing him declare he wants to leave isn’t easy.
“For a fan, it’s like a stab in the back. Hearing your best player say he wants to leave is never pleasant.
“I empathise with Koke, the other players, and Simeone, who have to go to press conferences to defend and protect him because he’s young.
“I don’t think he’s a bad person, he simply has the desire to go. The club took a risk by keeping him, now we have to make sure he feels good, and performs well on the pitch; that’s what the fans expect.”
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Comparing it to the massive effort it took Antoine Griezmann to win back the Metropolitano faithful after his own turbulent history, Godín noted that time will tell if Álvarez can mend fences.
Álvarez remains a focal point for Los Rojiblancos this season, though he faces a tough mental and physical battle to fully win back the supporters amidst lingering tensions.
