Doubts over Alvarez's participation in derby clash

Julián Alvarez has returned to Atlético's collective training on Friday in preparation for the Madrid derby against Real Madrid, but he did not complete the session, leaving his participation in the match uncertain.

According to the Spanish newspaper "Mundo Deportivo", Julián Alvarez has joined the group after starting individual training with rehabilitation specialist Oscar Pitia, where he underwent speed training and ball work with both feet.

After that, the Argentine forward participated in training with players who did not start against CA Osasuna, before returning to individual work again and leaving the session after about 30 minutes, having taken some penalties without showing any signs of distress.

Julián Alvarez missed Atlético's last two matches against Real Sociedad and CA Osasuna due to muscle fatigue, so Saturday's training session, the last before the derby, will be crucial in determining his status for the matchday squad.

Julián Alvarez's participation as a starter against Real Madrid seems difficult, even if he manages to make Atlético's squad, due to his inability to complete Friday's training at the same level as his teammates.

Atlético's training saw the absence of Pablo Barrios and Alexander Sørloth, while the players who started against CA Osasuna trained separately and with lighter loads. Changes to the lineup are expected, including the participation of Hanko, Bopil, and Julián Alvarez.