The Athletic FC Podcast Why Barcelona want Julian Alvarez
Apr 9, 2026
Dermot Corrigan, La Liga correspondent with deep Spanish football insight, and Pol Ballus, Barca reporter focused on transfers and tactics, unpack Julian Álvarez's starring performance at Camp Nou. They debate his match-winning moments, finishing and set-piece impact. The conversation also covers Barca’s tactical choices, transfer dilemmas and the financial pressures shaping their pursuit of top talent.
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Clutch Performer Despite Flat Season
- Alvarez has been inconsistent by numbers but turns up in key matches, scoring a clever free kick and provoking a red card against Barca.
- Dermot highlights Alvarez's recent form vs Spurs and Barca as evidence Atletico won't easily sell him.
Lewandowski's Form Exposes Barca Dependence On Youth
- Robert Lewandowski is showing age-related decline and hasn't offered the same threat or mobility in recent big games.
- Pol links Lewandowski's dip and Rafinha's absence to Barcelona over-relying on 19-year-old Lamine Yamal.
Missed Chances Cost Barca At Camp Nou
- Barcelona created chances but failed to convert while Atletico were efficient, a fine-margin defeat influenced by refereeing decisions.
- Pol emphasises Barca's expected goals lead (about 1.33 vs Atletico's ~0.33) but no returned score due to missed chances.