Spanish FA fines Barcelona 602 euros over Alvarez inquiry

Barcelona faces a small financial penalty for its attempt to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid.

The Spanish Football Federation fined the Catalan club 602 euros, equivalent to 670 dollars, for violating Article 133 of its regulations. This rule requires clubs to notify opponents in writing before opening transfer talks. Atletico Madrid filed a complaint arguing that Barcelona contacted the player without providing that required notice. The club also raised the issue with FIFA, but the international body ruled it had no jurisdiction over the matter.

Alvarez, who signed with Atletico in 2024 for a fee of up to 95 million euros, is under contract until June 2030. The dispute began during the 2026 World Cup when the striker stated he wanted to fulfill his dream of playing for Barcelona. Those comments triggered a conflict that lasted through the summer transfer window. This season, home fans at the Metropolitano stadium have frequently booed the player during matches.

On Saturday, Alvarez scored the winning goal against Deportivo La Coruna. This marked his second consecutive match with a goal for Atletico. The result moved his team within two points of league leaders Barcelona. After the game, the Argentine addressed the tension with his supporters. He called his earlier comments a mistake and said he understood the fans' anger. He noted that he would also be upset given the support he received since arriving at the club.

Sections of the crowd gave Alvarez a standing ovation following the goal, signaling a potential improvement in his relationship with the team. The striker has recorded 51 goals in 115 appearances for Atletico since joining from Manchester City.