Simeone says Julián Álvarez is “closer” to the level expected

Julián is “closer” in Simeone’s view. His return to Atlético de Madrid’s starting line-up against Manchester United, in a match that finished 2-0, marked progress towards a return to normality, though the process is not complete. The fixture was in the Champions League, a competition where stars shine particularly brightly and whose significance is felt in Atlético matches.

Given freedom in the area behind the forwards, Álvarez pressed for a goal but could not find one. The opportunity had been viewed as a good chance to get back on the scoresheet; it did not come off. After the match, Simeone linked supporters’ expectations to what the player contributes: “The fans want to see the best from everyone, and Julián is giving them that. Against Alavés, he had a good second half; today he could have scored, and he is closer to what every Atlético supporter wants to see, because we need him.”

The European setting also puts Álvarez’s attacking record for Atlético into focus: in this competition, he has 17 goals and seven assists in 26 matches. Simeone, meanwhile, is giving everything to help the forward from Calchín regain his level. Starting against Manchester United is an encouraging sign, but the search for a goal and the return to normality remain works in progress. The Champions League match was played at the Metropolitano Stadium.