Alvarez Thanks Atletico Fans Away at Bilbao, Responds to Departure Controversy

On September 6 Beijing time, Atletico Madrid faced Athletic Bilbao away in La Liga's fourth round. Before the match, few people expected Atletico to win. Bilbao have always been difficult to beat at home, and Atletico's current form has not been stable. In the end, the scoreboard showed a clear result: 0-3.

But Alvarez is not an ordinary player. When he came on as a substitute in the 59th minute, Atletico were already 0-2 down. Bringing on an attacking core at that moment had an obvious tactical purpose — at least to see whether the player still had the determination to fight.

During his 31 minutes on the pitch, Alvarez attempted seven dribbles and completed four, with both figures the highest in the match. A success rate close to 60 percent is not poor for a substitute who had just entered and was not fully warmed up. More importantly, he had one shot and one shot on target, with an expected goals figure of 0.23, showing that he remained active despite limited touches.

His passing was also impressive, with a 100% completion rate. He had 30 touches, completed 16 of 16 passes, and delivered one key pass. These numbers reflect a player still adjusting his rhythm and searching for chemistry with the team. He did not give up because of the defeat, instead producing a solid performance during his 31 minutes.

However, the moment that gave this report its news value came after the match. Atletico traditionally thank the travelling supporters after away games, and this time Alvarez was present.

The statement may sound simple, but it carries significant weight. Half a month earlier, when a similar situation occurred, Alvarez left the scene alone, leading to widespread speculation and criticism.

Going back to August 23, Atletico drew 2-2 with Villarreal at home. Alvarez came on as a substitute in that match, but after the final whistle he did not join the post-match appreciation and instead went straight back to the players' tunnel before leaving alone. At the time, he was at the center of transfer speculation involving Barcelona, and the action was interpreted by many as a silent protest, triggering extensive discussion.

Some said he lacked gratitude, while others questioned his attitude. More people wondered whether his relationship with the club had deteriorated significantly. When a team's key player appears to avoid a post-match thank-you in front of home supporters, it naturally attracts attention.

But now, the situation appears to be gradually easing. In this away match against Bilbao, Alvarez not only played but also stood in front of the fans after the match. Whether he did so out of genuine acceptance or as a compromise, he at least showed that attitude. For a major club, gestures can sometimes carry importance.

Of course, it is too early to say he has completely returned to normal. Across these two matches, he has played only 55 minutes in total, with zero goals and zero assists. For a forward valued at over 100 million and carrying huge expectations, those numbers are not impressive. Expecting a substitute playing around 30 minutes to immediately transform a team's attack is unrealistic.

On the other hand, maintaining basic involvement and competitive condition in such circumstances is not easy. He is dealing not only with match pressure, but also transfer rumors, the club's stance, and fan emotions.

What is also interesting is Barcelona's situation. Reports suggest Barcelona may once again pursue Alvarez in the winter transfer window. It sounds simple, but making it happen would be difficult. How willing would Atletico be to sell? What kind of offer could Barcelona make? What does Alvarez himself want? Every step contains uncertainty.

From Atletico's perspective, they clearly do not want to lose a forward in his prime at this moment. Simeone's team needs attacking power, and although Alvarez has not been spectacular recently, his value is undeniable. Finding suitable reinforcements after selling him would not be easy either.

From Barcelona's perspective, they want immediate impact rather than just potential. If Alvarez could join smoothly in the winter window, he would be a useful addition to Barcelona's attacking system. However, with young players such as Gavi and Yamal emerging, whether Barcelona still need an established number nine is something the club must consider.

Alvarez himself is caught in the middle and has become the most passive party. His performances will directly influence the direction of negotiations. If he plays well, Atletico will have more reason to keep him and Barcelona may need to raise their offer. If he struggles, he will also face difficulties, because at this stage of his career he needs regular playing time and a stable environment rather than constant speculation.

Fifty-five minutes, two matches, zero goals and zero assists. Looking at these numbers in the first period after the transfer window closed, they are not outstanding, but they are not disastrous either. The real test is still ahead. Whether he leaves in the winter will depend on whether he can speak through his performances in the coming minutes.

As for the 'leaving alone' incident that once caused widespread discussion, it now appears more like a turning point. Alvarez gave a simple response through this appearance: he is still here, and he has not given up. Whether he stays or turns away in the future, time will provide the answer.