Simeone rules out Álvarez for Sevilla as Sørloth absence compounds Atlético's attacking crisis

Diego Simeone confirmed on Friday that Julián Álvarez will play no part when Atlético Madrid travel to face Sevilla in La Liga, with the Argentine’s absence compounded by the continued unavailability of Alexander Sørloth. Speaking from the club’s Majadahonda training base, Simeone said Atlético had made its position on Álvarez clear and shifted focus to a Sevilla side arriving on the back of two consecutive wins.

The double absence leaves Atlético with a significant problem in attack. Simeone acknowledged the combined effect directly, saying Sørloth is an important player for the team and that, given the situation involving Álvarez, his absence carries even greater weight. The coach said the squad are working to find collective solutions that can create scoring opportunities and put them in a position to win.

On the prospect of resolving the Álvarez situation, Simeone was measured but firm. He said he did not have much more to add to what he had already explained, but stressed that once Álvarez returns to training with the group, the club will give him the same support it has always provided so that he feels important to the team. Simeone expressed hope that he could help Álvarez remain a key figure at Atlético.

Cristian Romero is set to join the squad on Saturday, though Simeone was clear that no pressure will be placed on the defender to accelerate his return. He said Romero needs time to regain fitness and reach top form, and that he will not select him until both he and the player feel he is ready to perform as required.

Despite the disruption surrounding Álvarez, Simeone dismissed any suggestion of a morale problem within the squad. He pointed to the team’s performances against Málaga and Villarreal as evidence of the group’s commitment since returning to pre-season, singling out the World Cup players for particular praise.

Looking ahead to the Sevilla fixture, Simeone said Atlético have been studying both the hosts’ style and their coach’s tactical approach. He noted Sevilla’s strong start to the La Liga season and acknowledged that playing away from home, in front of a partisan crowd, will present a genuine challenge — one that will require a collective team effort to overcome.

Simeone also took a moment to reflect on reaching 800 matches as Atlético head coach, saying he is happy, feels great, and remains grateful to the club, the supporters, and every player who has been part of the journey.