Flick and Simeone put Álvarez saga behind them ahead of charged clash

Álvarez stayed at Atlético Madrid after summer interest from Barcelona; the rivals meet Sunday at the Metropolitano.

Julián Álvarez spent the summer pushing for a move to Barcelona, but Atlético Madrid refused to sell. The Argentine striker's desire to join the rival club created tension with supporters and manager Diego Simeone, who were unhappy with his public pursuit of a transfer. As Álvarez has begun scoring again for Atlético, the fans have gradually warmed to him. Ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash between the two clubs at the Metropolitano, both Hansi Flick and Simeone appear ready to move past the saga.