Julian Alvarez congratulated for Arsenal transfer snub as Diego Simeone breaks silence

Diego Simeone has addressed Julian Alvarez's decision so stay at Atletico Madrid after the striker rejected Arsenal

Diego Simeone has congratulated Julian Alvarez for not letting his ego get in the way of his future after the Argentine striker opted to remain with Atletico Madrid.

After Atleti made it clear under no uncertain terms that they would not be doing business with Barcelona, Alvarez's dream destination of choice, the 26-year-old had two options: Sign for Arsenal or stay put.

In the end, he chose the latter, and Simeone has now spoken out on the ordeal after informing the Spanish press that Alvarez was in contention to feature again this weekend against Athletic Club.

He said: "As far as we're concerned, he's a very decisive person, clear in his thinking. I congratulate him because sometimes ego makes us think we're in a position we shouldn't be in. We're very happy with everything he brings to the team. It's what he feels."

FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page

Alvarez is thought to have been against a return to England due to family logistics. He was determined to join Barca and had hoped the two clubs would be able to find a resolution during the market but that didn't materialise.

The player is yet to speak out on a whirlwind summer which also saw him miss out on World Cup glory with Argentina in the United States following defeat to Spain in New Jersey.

Simeone added that he hopes Alvarez can now turn over a new leaf at the Metropolitano, explaining: "He's training very well, he'll be called up tomorrow, and we expect the best from him, as from all his teammates.

"I always look ahead; we have a very exciting season ahead, with many challenges and talented players, and we'll take it one game at a time.

Julian Alvarez is now back in Atletico Madrid training(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)

"I'm very clear about it: for me, life is full of opportunities. And Julian now has one. We often spend our time judging, and we need to worry about doing it less and learning more. I hope this has been a learning experience for him."

Alvarez has already made one La Liga appearance this season but has been missing for the past few weeks after he was booed by his own supporters during a 2-2 draw with Villarreal.

The incident raised the prospect of a turning point but Atletico refused to engage with Barcelona, while Alvarez refused to engage with Arsenal - ensuring he went nowhere come the closure of the window.

Official premium experiences at the Emirates are available now for the 26/27 Premier League season. Make it easier than ever to turn a regular fixture into something genuinely unforgettable.

Choose Football London as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.