Álvarez apologises: 'I would have been angry too as a fan'

Álvarez apologised to Atlético Madrid fans for his World Cup comments and failed transfer push to Barcelona, scoring twice this week to aid his reconciliation.

Julián Álvarez scored a crucial equaliser for Atlético Madrid in midweek against VfB Stuttgart in the Champions League, then netted the winner in Saturday's 1-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruña. After the match, he addressed his relationship with the club's supporters, apologising for his conduct over the summer when he aggressively pursued a transfer to Barcelona—a move the Madrid board rejected.

Speaking to Marca, Álvarez said: "I want to apologise to our fans for my words during the World Cup. That was a mistake. The way I said it, and the timing. I understand people are angry. I would have been angry too as a fan, especially seeing how they've always supported me. I appreciate their generosity."

Coach Diego Simeone backed his player's contrition. "I have great respect for people who say sorry. It's not easy," Simeone told Movistar. "Julián is a humble, hardworking boy who cares about his teammates. I appreciate his apology."