Julián Alvarez, Plugged In and Optimistic for the Final Stretch

Julián Alvarez faces the decisive final stretch of the season with optimism. The Rojiblanco striker has completed an excellent month of February, scoring four goals and providing two assists, a performance that has earned him recognition as Atlético’s best player, both by Mahou and by the fans.

Looking ahead to the important clash against Athletic, Alvarez is confident and motivated. “I am very happy personally,” Alvarez declares. “This award means that I have been able to help the team.

I feel very happy and grateful to my teammates and all the people at the club.” The player emphasizes the importance of teamwork to achieve goals. Aware of the demanding schedule, Alvarez emphasizes the need to maintain concentration: “February has been intense, but what is coming now is decisive.

These are the last months of the season where everything is defined.” The striker highlights the importance of focusing on each game, starting with the match against Athletic. Recalling the victory achieved against Athletic at San Mamés, Alvarez acknowledges the difficulty of the match: “It was a match that cost us at their place, but that we were able to pull through.” The player is confident in the support of the fans at the Metropolitano to face the important challenges ahead: “It’s always much better to play at home, with our people, who are always supporting us. Now we have second-leg matches at home, that gives us an extra boost.”

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Atlético: A Champions League Rival for Athletic

Athletic’s coach, Valverde, anticipates a high-level duel at the Metropolitano against an Atlético in great shape, despite their demanding schedule.

Valverde highlights the Colchoneros’ ability to compete at the highest level in multiple competitions, including the Champions League and the Copa del Rey, emphasizing that they are used to this pace and face it with confidence.

He recalls Atlético’s recent comeback in Barcelona, which demonstrates their mental and competitive strength. Valverde recognizes that Atlético is a formidable opponent, especially at their stadium, where they have not yet lost.

He highlights their ability to secure points in the final minutes, recalling Correa’s decisive goal in the first leg match. For Valverde, Atlético is a serious contender to win both La Liga and the Champions League.

Regarding his own team, Valverde regrets Sancet’s absence due to injury, although he is confident in Nico Williams’ recovery. He recognizes Sancet’s importance in Athletic’s attack, being their top scorer in La Liga.

Despite the absence, the coach does not rule out his participation in the Europa League match in Rome, although he prioritizes caution to avoid greater risks. Valverde insists on the need for Athletic to play a perfect game to have chances of victory at the Metropolitano.

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Atleti vs Athletic: Clash of Titans at the Metropolitano!

This Saturday, the Metropolitano stadium is preparing to host an exciting match between Atlético de Madrid and Athletic Club, a key duel in matchday 26 of LaLiga EA Sports 2024/2025.

Los Colchoneros, with their characteristic determination, will take to the field with the mission of adding three vital points that will allow them to put pressure on the leaders, Barcelona and Real Madrid, in the fight for the championship.

The team arrives after a convincing away victory against Valencia CF (0-3), which undoubtedly injects morale and confidence into the squad.

But it will not be an easy task, as Athletic Club, led by Ernesto Valverde, arrives in Madrid with the firm intention of consolidating their place in the Champions League spots and, at the same time, making a statement in the title race.

Los Leones are coming off a spectacular thrashing of Real Valladolid (7-1), demonstrating their offensive power and their ambition to go far in the competition. The match, which promises to be vibrant from start to finish, will pit two teams with defined playing styles and talented players against each other.

Atleti, true to its philosophy of fighting and dedication, will seek to impose its pace and take advantage of the home advantage to take the victory. Simeone’s team will have the unconditional support of their fans, who will fill the Metropolitano to cheer on their team in this important match. Don’t miss this great game! You can follow it through ESPN Deportes, ESPN+ Plus, and Fubo Sports in the United States.

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Clash of Titans at the Metropolitano

Big match at the Metropolitano! Atlético de Madrid faces Athletic in a crucial duel for Champions League spots. The Colchoneros, with 53 points, seek to consolidate their position on the LaLiga podium. Athletic, with 48 points, arrives with the ambition to close the gap and put pressure on Simeone’s team.

A Rojiblanco victory would leave Athletic just two points behind. In the 209 historical clashes between the two teams, Atlético dominates with 95 victories, compared to Athletic’s 79 and 35 draws. This new chapter promises strong emotions.

The match, corresponding to matchday 26 of LaLiga EA Sports, will be played on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. at the Metropolitano. The designated referee is Jesús Gil Manzano. Simeone will have to deal with the absences of Azpilicueta and Koke.

Sorloth could start, giving Julián Alvarez a rest. For their part, Athletic will not be able to count on Sancet due to injury, and Djaló is doubtful. Fans will be able to follow the match live through Movistar Plus +, Movistar LaLiga, LaLiga TV2, and Orange. Get ready to experience a vibrant match that could be decisive for Atlético’s future in LaLiga!

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Rotations in sight at the Metropolitano

After the demanding match in Montjuïc, Simeone is preparing strategic rotations for the clash against Athletic at the Metropolitano. With the confirmed absences of Koke and Azpilicueta, El Cholo prioritizes the physical freshness of the squad, aware of the importance of rest and physical preparation at this crucial stage of the season.

In Friday’s general rehearsal, at least three changes were glimpsed in the starting eleven, in addition to the expected return of Oblak to the goal. In defense, Le Normand could give Giménez a rest, providing solidity and experience.

In midfield, Marcos Llorente could take De Paul’s place, while Nahuel Molina would join the right side, injecting energy and speed into the team. The main novelty would be in the attack, where Sorloth, after his outstanding performance, would form a duo with Griezmann, relegating Julián Alvarez to the bench.

Simeone seeks a balance between competitiveness and fatigue management, taking into account the proximity of the challenging matches against Madrid and Barça. Despite the absences, the team maintains intensity in training.

Azpilicueta and Koke continue with their recovery process, working hard to rejoin the group as soon as possible. The main objective is to arrive in optimal condition for the upcoming commitments, maintaining the high level of performance that characterizes Atlético.

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Julián Álvarez: The Pride of Calchín Triumphs at Atleti

From the small town of Calchín, Argentina, an exceptional talent emerged: Julián Álvarez, known since childhood as “La Arañita.” At just 25 years old, this forward, now a key figure at Atlético de Madrid, has conquered the world of football thanks to his skill, effort, and humility.

In Calchín, where the local club’s stadium bears his name, Julián dazzled from an early age. His former coach recalls how, at just five years old, he already stood out above the rest. Despite his shyness off the field, inside he was an unstoppable whirlwind, capable of transforming any play into a goal.

His talent attracted people from all over, eager to see “La Arañita” play. After a brief stint in the youth ranks of Real Madrid and after rejecting Boca Juniors due to his love for River Plate, Julián found his place in professional football.

His explosion at River Plate catapulted him onto the international stage, where he soon reaped successes, from the Copa Libertadores to the Qatar World Cup, becoming an idol for his town. The impact of Julián on Calchín is immense.

His success has boosted tourism in the area, and his generosity has translated into significant donations for Club Atlético Calchín. For his town, Julián is much more than a footballer; he is a symbol of humility, hard work, and the values ​​that represent Calchín. His story is a source of pride and joy for all who know him, proving that with effort and dedication, dreams can come true, even from the smallest corner of the world.

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Simeone trusts in the strength of the Metropolitano and the spirit of Atleti

Diego Pablo Simeone, after the last training session prior to the crucial match against Athletic, conveyed optimism and confidence in his team. He highlighted the importance of Ángel Correa, emphasizing his dedication and the affection that the Rojiblanca fans have for him.

Simeone acknowledged the difficulty of accumulating matches, but assured that the team is focused on recovery and preparing for the next match in the best possible way. The Argentine coach praised the team’s physical work, highlighting the work of Luis Piñedo.

He emphasized the enthusiasm surrounding the team this season, driven by the desire to achieve titles and surpass what was achieved in the previous campaign.

Regarding the match against Athletic, Simeone recognized the importance of having the unconditional support of the fans in the Metropolitano, hoping that the stadium will vibrate with its usual energy.

Simeone also had words of praise for Ernesto Valverde, Athletic’s coach, highlighting his ability to transmit tranquility and confidence to his teams. In addition, he expressed his wish that Athletic have the opportunity to play the Europa League final in their own stadium. Finally, the Argentine coach highlighted the importance of Antoine Griezmann in the squad, considering him a differential player who brings a plus to the team and in whom he fully trusts for the match.

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Nico Williams: The Imminent Takeoff of a Star

Iñaki Williams, future captain of Athletic, has shared his vision on his brother Nico’s current form, highlighting the media pressure and expectations surrounding the young talent.

After a period of uncertainty and rumors about his future, including an offer from FC Barcelona, Nico seems to have found the stability and focus needed to shine again. Iñaki emphasizes that making personal decisions, especially when young, is not easy, especially when statements are distorted.

Despite a slight dip in form, Iñaki is fully confident in Nico’s resurgence, assuring that the media noise is behind him. He anticipates a swift return to his best level, a moment he considers crucial for the team.

With injuries that have affected him in recent months, Nico has demonstrated his ability to recover. Iñaki firmly bets that the true potential of the Spanish international winger is about to manifest, just at a decisive moment in the season. The Athletic Club fans eagerly await to see Nico Williams unleash all his talent and contribute to the team’s success.

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Atlético Fine-Tunes Set-Piece Strategy

Atlético de Madrid, under Simeone’s leadership, is focusing on refining its set-piece defense after conceding strategic goals in key moments. The Argentine coach, aware of the importance of these actions, especially in decisive knockout matches, has put the focus on correcting the errors that proved costly in the last game.

The goals conceded from corner kicks, both individually and collectively, have raised alarms in the coaching staff. Simeone and Tevenet are working intensely to ensure that the players maintain maximum concentration in these plays.

The coach recalls the importance of set-pieces in the League won in 2014, where this facet of the game was decisive. Although the team has proven to be effective in attacking set-pieces, with several goals originating from corners and free kicks, defending these actions has become a weak point to improve.

Sorloth, one of the main assets in aerial play both in attack and defense, remains key when clearing balls. The next opponent, Athletic, is a team that stands out for its effectiveness in corner kicks, which adds even more urgency to the need to strengthen this aspect of the game. Atlético seeks to regain the defensive solidity that has characterized it, paying special attention to strategy, to face the upcoming challenges with guarantees.

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Julián Álvarez: A Colchonero at Heart

Julián Álvarez has become a key player for Atlético de Madrid. Since his arrival, he has participated in every team match, proving to be a fundamental element in Simeone’s plans. With 20 goals to his name, ‘La Araña’ has earned the affection of the fans and feels fully integrated into the club.

Julián’s signing was partly forged thanks to Giuliano Simeone, his teammate at the Olympic Games, who spoke wonders about the team. But it was ‘Cholo’ Simeone himself who ended up convincing him, promising him an ambitious project and an important role not only in the present, but also in the future of the club.

The warm welcome from the fans at the airport and at the Metropolitano were also decisive factors in his choice. Álvarez recalled his audacious Panenka-style penalty goal at the Santiago Bernabéu, a play he had already rehearsed in training.

The goal was dedicated to his mother and grandparents, who always supported him in his football career. The striker explained that his decision to leave Manchester City was due to the need to seek new challenges and find a place where he could develop his full potential.

Despite his gratitude to the English club, Julián longed to play key matches and feel he had a more leading role in the team. His arrival at Atlético gives him that opportunity, and Colchoneros fans celebrate having a player of his caliber defending the red and white.

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