Julián Álvarez Changes Agent Amid Atlético Madrid Dispute

Julián Álvarez has ended his long-term relationship with agent Fernando Hidalgo after a turbulent period at Atlético Madrid linked to his failed move to Barcelona. The forward is now without representation while the club waits to learn who will manage his future negotiations.

According to a24.com and BigBangNews, Álvarez and Hidalgo separated after more than 10 years working together. The dispute followed a summer transfer saga in which the striker's possible departure from Atlético Madrid did not materialize.

The attempted move to Barcelona was rejected by Atlético Madrid, which maintained that it did not want to sell the Argentina international. The club previously said there was a "zero percent" chance of transferring him to the Catalan side.

Reports from a24.com said Álvarez's absence from a training session and a medical report referencing depression increased attention around the situation. The forward's return to the Metropolitano was also marked by whistles from some supporters.

Mateu Alemany, Atlético Madrid's director of Men's Professional Football, addressed the agent change before the match against Deportivo Alavés. He said the club respected the player's personal decision and wanted clarity about his next representative.

"We are extremely respectful of the player's private matters, and within that decision it is important for the club because communication with the agent is as important as communication with the player. If Julián has made it, it is because he considers it beneficial for his career, and for us it is important to know who that agent will be to maintain that relationship. We still do not know who it is," said Mateu Alemany, director of Men's Professional Football at Atlético Madrid.

Alemany also discussed Atlético's preparation after the international break, with several players returning late from national team duties before upcoming fixtures.

"Now it happens that we have had 17 players with their national teams who could only train Thursday and Friday, and we also have Champions League next week. The coach has to manage the efforts and the rest periods," said Mateu Alemany, director of Men's Professional Football at Atlético Madrid.

The executive also described his own schedule after a demanding summer transfer window and the team's expectations for the season.

"Yes, there was an opportunity to take a few vacation days, which were good after the summer, and recharge for what is coming. It is a long, motivating schedule with the expectation of continuing to grow," said Mateu Alemany, director of Men's Professional Football at Atlético Madrid.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Alemany said Álvarez's decision would be respected, while the club continues to wait for confirmation of the new agent. A representation agency connected to former Argentina player Javier Pastore has emerged as a possible option, although no agreement has been confirmed.

BigBangNews reported that Álvarez was dissatisfied with Hidalgo's handling of the Barcelona negotiations and was described as "disappointed" with his former representative. The striker is now rebuilding his professional structure while remaining an Atlético Madrid player.