Alvarez apologises to Atletico fans after scoring winner in 1-0 LaLiga win over Deportivo

Julian Alvarez apologised to Atletico Madrid supporters after scoring the winning goal in a 1-0 LaLiga victory over Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, and spoke about the controversy surrounding his earlier comments about wanting to play for Barcelona.

Alvarez's remarks at the 2026 World Cup that he wanted to fulfil his dream of playing for Barcelona prompted a transfer saga that stretched through pre-season and the summer window, with Atletico refusing to sell him to their rivals. The episode strained his relationship with sections of the club's supporters and he has regularly been booed at the Metropolitano this season.

On Saturday the Argentine forward struck for the second consecutive match to secure the three points, and some supporters gave him a standing ovation after he found the net. The goal moved Atletico within two points of LaLiga leaders Barcelona.

After the match Alvarez told Spanish broadcaster Movistar Plus: "I'd like to apologise to our fans for what I said at the World Cup; it was a mistake in terms of how I said it and the timing." He added: "I understand why the fans are angry. If I were a fan, I'd be angry too. Especially given how they've supported me since I arrived."

Alvarez said he would seek to repair the relationship through his conduct and performances rather than words alone, telling Movistar Plus: "I hope that with hard work and humility I can turn this situation around." He also said: "I've been feeling better in recent matches – both physically and on the ball. I want to help the team and give my best," and pointed to progress in his physical condition and work with the ball.

Atletico have 25 points and sit second in LaLiga, two behind leaders Barcelona; Barcelona will host third-placed Real Madrid at Camp Nou on Sunday, with Real Madrid on 21 points ahead of the season's first Clasico.

For Alvarez, Saturday's goal kept Atletico applying pressure on Barcelona, while his apology was an attempt to draw a line under the transfer saga that has overshadowed his season; he said he wants to move forward by working hard and delivering for Atletico.