Atlético coach Diego Simeone has stated that Julián Álvarez is prepared to take on Barcelona in their top-of-the-table clash. Álvarez had expressed his desire to leave Atlético Madrid in June, with sources confirming his preference was to join Barcelona. He has started Atlético's last four matches, scoring twice. Simeone's response to Álvarez's readiness was brief, stating: "He's doing very good." The two teams are separated by just two points in LaLiga, with the match taking place in Madrid. Álvarez, 26, will face Barcelona for the first time since the transfer saga drew to a close.