Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone plans to include Julian Alvarez in La Liga opener against Malaga on August 19 at the Metropolitano. Alvarez will return to training on Monday and Simeone wants him to be in top condition for the match. The club has been firm in its decision not to sell Alvarez to Barcelona, despite his desire to leave. Simeone is scheduling Alvarez's training sessions to ensure he is ready for the match. Atletico Madrid is currently fourth in La Liga, with 57 points, 17 wins, 6 draws and 8 losses in 31 games. The team is 22 points behind leaders Barcelona. The next Atletico Madrid fixture is against Elche on February 21, 2027, at the Metropolitano.