Atletico Madrid is set to face Marseille in a friendly match, but striker Julian Alvarez will not be present. The Argentine has been left out of the squad due to his lack of physical preparation, having completed only five days of training since returning to preseason sessions. Despite this, Alvarez's absence has fueled speculation over his future at the club, particularly after reports suggested he might be considering a possible transfer to Barcelona. Coach Diego Simeone still counts on Alvarez as the team's first-choice striker for the season, but his representative has requested an urgent meeting with president Miguel Ángel Gil Marín to discuss his situation. Atletico Madrid is currently in fourth place in the league, with 57 points and a +19 goal difference. Despite this, the club remains 22 points behind leaders Barcelona. The next league fixture is on August 19, when Atletico Madrid will face Malaga at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.