Depression? Julián Álvarez looks deeply upset with Atlético's actions. PHOTO

Julián Álvarez does not exactly look thrilled by how this summer is unfolding.

Details: Insider Fabrizio Romano shared a photo of the Argentine striker posing in Atlético Madrid's new home kit for the 2026/27 season. However, far more attention than the shirt itself was drawn by Álvarez's extremely serious expression: the forward is standing in front of the camera without even the slightest hint of a smile. A single photograph, of course, cannot reliably reveal a player's emotional state, but the image looks especially striking against the backdrop of the long-running saga surrounding his future.

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Álvarez has made no secret of his desire to move to Barcelona, but Atlético remain determined to keep one of their biggest stars. The Madrid club's stance has remained firm despite the Catalans' attempts to complete the transfer, turning the situation into one of the most tense stories of the summer window.

The uncertainty has now spilled into the start of the new season. Diego Simeone confirmed that Álvarez would not feature in Atlético's La Liga opener against Málaga, explaining that the striker still needs more training after returning from the World Cup. At the same time, the coach stressed that the Argentine remains one of the team's most important players.

Against that backdrop, the new promotional shot will inevitably give supporters another reason to discuss Álvarez's mood. Atlético are dressing their star in the club's new colours, while the question of whether he actually wants to continue wearing them remains at the centre of the transfer saga.

It is worth noting that Álvarez has scored 49 goals in 106 appearances for Atlético Madrid. His current contract with the Spanish club runs until 2030.

Reminder: A €30 million surprise! Barcelona find a replacement for Álvarez