‘Julian is with us’ - Simeone throws support for Alvarez amid fans' backlash

Alvarez's relationship with the Atletico faithful soured after he publicly declared during the World Cup that it was his "dream" to sign for Barcelona this summer. 

The tension came to a head during Sunday's dramatic draw with Villarreal at the Metropolitano stadium, where the Argentine striker became a target for the home crowd's frustration.

The forward was met with verbal abuse while warming up on the touchline and jeers when his name was read out over the stadium announcer. 

Simeone has publicly defended Alvarez, urging the club and their supporters to unite behind the striker following the hostile reception. 

The manager's main goal is to protect his fellow countryman from the backlash and has called for solidarity to help the player navigate the fallout from his controversial remarks.

"We need strikers, good strikers. We have him, and we have to take care of him," Simeone said. 

"I think we all need to be united. Julian is with us on the team, and as long as he’s here, we’re going to support him. 

“We want the best for him because we know what he can contribute. It’s an uncomfortable situation for everyone, but hopefully it will be resolved and we’ll all be happy at the end of the season."

The situation surrounding Alvarez has intensified following a summer-long transfer saga involving Barcelona. 

However, negotiations were abruptly halted by Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin after a June deadline passed without any club meeting their steep €150 million (£128m) valuation.

With Atletico reluctant to sell to a direct La Liga competitor and the relationship with the fans deteriorating, Arsenal has emerged as a potential suitor. 

The Gunners are in the market for a top-tier forward and have reportedly asked to be kept updated on Alvarez's status.