Barcelona fined following Atletico Madrid complaint over Julian Alvarez

Barcelona have been handed a fine of €602 after Atletico Madrid officially complained to Spanish football authorities regarding the club's conduct during the summer transfer window. The Catalan side was found to have breached Article 133 of the competition regulations by initiating contact with Julian Alvarez without providing the required written notification to his parent club.

Under league rules, any team intending to sign a professional player must formally communicate their interest to the current club before starting negotiations. Despite the Argentine forward's public interest in a move, Atletico Madrid refused to engage with Barcelona, even using social media to warn fans against believing transfer rumors.

A history of friction

This is not the first time Barcelona has faced such a penalty involving an Atletico player, having received a similar sanction regarding Antoine Griezmann in 2019. Following a summer of tension, Alvarez has since sought to reconcile with Atletico supporters after his desire to leave became public knowledge.

"I apologise to our fans. They have always been very generous with me. It was neither the right moment nor the right way to handle things."

Julian Alvarez

"I value very much the moment of asking for forgiveness because it is not easy."

Diego Simeone

The forward remains under contract at the Metropolitano until 2030, with coach Diego Simeone publicly supporting the player's decision to apologize and move forward with the season.