Atlético Madrid is gearing up to file a formal complaint with FIFA regarding Julián Álvarez, following the player's public declaration of his desire to leave the club. Atlético's CEO, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, has stated that they will not sanction a sale to Barcelona and accuse them of making an improper approach for a player contracted until 2030.

Álvarez expressed his wish to transfer after Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria in the World Cup, stating, "I want to fulfil my dream." Atlético believes that Barcelona engaged with Álvarez's camp during the protected transfer period without their consent, prompting the potential FIFA complaint.

Key points include:

• Gil Marín's assertion:

We are going to lodge a complaint with FIFA against Barça for negotiating with a player under contract.

• The distinction between a threatened complaint and one formally filed, with Atlético historically following through on such declarations.
• Barcelona claims that Atlético was aware of their interest, creating a conflicting narrative likely to shape the FIFA review.

Despite Álvarez's public exit request, he remains under contract with a €500 million release clause, making it unlikely that any club will meet that figure. Atlético has already rejected Real Madrid's €150 million offer, treating any bids below the clause as unserious.

Gil Marín has pointed out the timing of Álvarez's comments, suggesting they were not spontaneous and hinting at a calculated move during a significant moment for Argentina.

Meanwhile, Barcelona faces financial constraints that hinder their ability to meet Atlético's demands, with their initial bid around €100 million dismissed by Atlético. The ongoing FIFA complaint complicates Barcelona's pursuit, as they seek a replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

As Álvarez continues to represent Argentina in the World Cup, the next steps hinge on whether Atlético formally files their complaint and if Barcelona will present a revised bid to change the dynamics of the negotiation.