Open proceedings against Barça over Julián Álvarez case

The Catalan club and the striker could face heavy sanctions if Madrid’s accusations are confirmed

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Open proceedings against Barça over Julián Álvarez case

Atlético accuses Barcelona of making an illegal approach for Julián Álvarez. The RFEF is said to have opened proceedings, without presuming any guilt.

The Julián Álvarez case is taking on a disciplinary twist. According to Marca, the Spanish Football Federation has launched an extraordinary procedure following a complaint from Atlético de Madrid against FC Barcelona. The Madrid club alleges that the Catalans exerted repeated pressure on their striker to facilitate a transfer.

An investigator has reportedly been appointed, and both clubs will have the opportunity to present their arguments. The initiation of these proceedings does not mean that Barcelona or the player have already been found guilty.

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Heavy sanctions possible, but still hypothetical

If the allegations are proven, articles 93 and 133 of the Disciplinary Code could see Julián Álvarez suspended for anywhere from one month to two years. Barça could face a fine, a partial stadium closure, or even a three-point deduction in La Liga.

A transfer ban could also be imposed under FIFA regulations if inducement to break a contract is demonstrated. However, this remains a hypothetical scenario. In 2019, a similar case involving Antoine Griezmann ultimately resulted in just a €300 fine for Barcelona.

A €500 million dilemma for Atlético

Julián Álvarez has reportedly publicly opened the door to leaving Atlético Madrid, believing a transfer could suit all parties. FC Barcelona is said to be keen to open talks for his signing, but Atlético is refusing to strengthen a direct rival. Arsenal has also been linked with the player, though there is no confirmation of any recent concrete move.

Under contract until June 2030, the Argentine is said to have a €500 million release clause. His market value has now soared to €120 million, a €20 million increase since the 2026 World Cup.

Last season, Álvarez racked up 20 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances. Since arriving in Madrid, he has 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 matches. Across his club career—with River Plate, Manchester City and Atlético—he boasts a tally of 139 goals and 64 assists in 331 games.

Atlético now faces a real dilemma: selling their striker to Barça would strengthen a domestic rival, but keeping an unsettled player could only fuel internal tensions.