Atlético Madrid secured a 3-1 victory over Sevilla at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán on Saturday, moving to the top of La Liga without Julian Alvarez, who skipped training amid transfer uncertainty. Alejandro Baena scored twice, while Ademola Lookman added a goal, capitalizing on Sevilla’s struggles.
Atlético Madrid crushed Sevilla 3-1 at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán on Saturday, seizing the early La Liga lead as Julian Alvarez remained absent due to transfer uncertainty. The win, their third in three matches, came despite a lack of clarity around the Argentine forward’s future, with Atlético refusing to negotiate with Barcelona over his potential move. Alejandro Baena, the Spanish midfielder, was the star of the show, scoring twice in the first half, while Ademola Lookman added a goal to seal the victory.
Baena’s Double and Lookman’s Goal Power Atlético’s Win
Baena opened the scoring in the fourth minute, finishing from Lee Kang-in’s assist, and doubled the lead in the 26th minute with a clever shot. His second goal, assisted by Marcos Llorente, came seven minutes later, putting Atlético 3-0 up at halftime. Sevilla’s Miguel Sierra pulled one back in the 66th minute, but the deficit proved insurmountable. The win extended Atlético’s perfect start to the season, with seven points from three matches, while Sevilla remained fifth with six points.
Lookman, who joined Atlético in the summer, marked his first La Liga goal for the club with a clinical finish in the 26th minute. His goal, set up by Pablo Barrios, showcased his adaptability in Simeone’s system. Baena, meanwhile, continued his strong form, with his brace highlighting his importance to the team’s attack. The Spanish midfielder’s performance was particularly notable given the absence of Alvarez, who has been linked with a move to Barcelona but was left out of the squad.
Alvarez’s Absence and Simeone’s Comments
Alvarez’s absence was a focal point of the match, with Atlético’s management refusing to engage in talks with Barcelona over his potential transfer. Diego Simeone addressed the situation, stating, Julian is going through his own personal process, and we'll be here to help him – and for him to help us on the pitch – because he is an extraordinary player.
The manager’s comments underscored the club’s stance, even as Alvarez’s lack of involvement raised questions about his future.
Sevilla’s Struggles and Atlético’s Dominance
Sevilla, who had won their first two matches of the season, struggled to adapt to Atlético’s intensity. The hosts managed only one goal, with Sierra’s volley in the 66th minute failing to change the outcome.
Sevilla’s difficulties were compounded by late bookings for Isaac Romero and Gabriel Suazo, which did little to alter the match’s trajectory. The loss marked a setback for the Andalusian side, who had entered the game with high expectations. For Atlético, the win reinforced their status as strong contenders in the early stages of the season, with Simeone’s team showing resilience in the face of internal challenges.
What’s Next for Atlético and Sevilla?
Atlético’s next match will see them face Real Betis, who suffered a 5-2 defeat to Levante, ending their perfect start. The Rojiblancos will look to maintain their momentum, while Sevilla will aim to bounce back against a struggling Betis side. The outcome of these matches could significantly impact the La Liga standings, with Atlético’s position at the top depending on their ability to sustain their form.
For Alvarez, the situation remains unresolved. His absence from the squad has sparked speculation about his future, with Barcelona and Arsenal both linked to the forward. Atlético’s refusal to negotiate could force a resolution in the coming weeks, as the transfer window progresses. Meanwhile, Baena’s performance has solidified his role in the team, with his goals and creativity proving vital in the absence of Alvarez.
The match also highlighted the importance of tactical flexibility. Simeone’s decision to start Lookman and Baena in Alvarez’s absence paid dividends, with the duo combining effectively to dismantle Sevilla’s defense. This adaptability could be crucial as the season progresses, particularly if Alvarez’s situation remains unresolved.
