Barcelona Fined 602 Euros Over Unauthorized Contact with Julian Alvarez

Barcelona has been fined a nominal 602 euros following a complaint filed by Atletico Madrid in late July, accusing the Catalan club of unauthorized contact with striker Julian Alvarez. According to Estadio Deportivo, the disciplinary proceedings have concluded with the fine issued in accordance with Royal Spanish Football Federation regulations.

Under RFEF rules, a club wishing to negotiate with a player under contract must notify the current team in writing before opening talks. Alvarez, who is tied to Atletico until 2030, became the center of the controversy after it was revealed that Barcelona approached him without prior notice to the Madrid-based club.

The penalty was assessed under Article 133 of the disciplinary code for regulatory breaches. This is not the first time Atletico has lodged such a complaint against Barcelona: back in 2019, the club filed a similar grievance over the acquisition of Antoine Griezmann, resulting in a symbolic fine of 300 euros.

Meanwhile, tension surrounding Alvarez at Atletico is beginning to ease. The Argentine forward previously angered supporters by expressing a desire to join Barcelona during the World Cup. He recently apologized to the fans for his remarks and the timing, stating that he understands their frustration.

The winning goal he scored against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, securing a 1-0 victory for Atletico, helped mend his relationship with the supporters. It marked his second goal in four days following a lengthy domestic scoring drought. Manager Diego Simeone welcomed the apology, noting that he respects those who have the courage to ask for forgiveness and emphasizing the team's need for the player.