Godín comments on Álvarez's crisis with Atlético

The Uruguayan star Diego Godín has stated that the situation faced by Argentine striker Julián Alvarez at Atlético, following a summer filled with rumors and a declared desire to leave, represents a major challenge for the club, the player, and the fans alike, ahead of the anticipated derby against Real Madrid.

In statements to RMC Sport, Godín said that hearing the desire of one of the team's top stars to leave was painful, explaining: "When the best player in the team announces his wish to leave, it feels like a stab to the fans."

The former Atlético defender, who played 389 matches for the club between 2010 and 2019, stated that the file continued throughout the summer transfer window, making it more complicated to deal with in the dressing room.

Godín pointed out that the situation is not limited to the fans only, but also affects coach Diego Simeone and the player's teammates, saying: "Everyone wants to protect the player and help him, but when he expresses his desire to leave, it becomes difficult."

The Uruguayan star reminisced about Antoine Griezmann's transfer to FC Barcelona in 2019, stating that a star's departure to a direct rival always leaves fans feeling frustrated.

Julián Alvarez is expected to start the derby match against Real Madrid on the bench after missing the last two matches due to muscle fatigue. Godín believes that restoring the player's status requires support from the club and the fans, stating: "I don't think he is a bad person, but he had different ambitions. Atlético decided to keep him, and now we must work to make him happy and comfortable so he can give his best on the pitch."

Atlético hope Julián Alvarez can regain the trust of the "Rojiblancos" fans by delivering strong performances in the upcoming phase, starting with the clash against Real Madrid, while the player remains under the watchful eyes of fans who have not forgotten his previous desire to leave.