Why did Simeone decide to bench Julián Álvarez against Espanyol in LaLiga?

In a decision that surprised many, Diego Simeone chose to leave Julian Alvarez on the bench for Atletico Madrid's match against Espanyol in the Spanish league. The news caused a stir, but the reason behind this choice is entirely understandable and has to do with the player's physical well-being.

The Reason Behind the Decision: The Necessary Rest for Alvarez

The reason for this decision is tied to the recent workload that Julian Alvarez has had to face. The forward, who comes off a tough double-header of World Cup qualifiers with the Argentina national team, has not only had to perform at the highest level in international matches, but he has also been a key figure for his club. These matches, which require considerable physical and mental effort, can take their toll, and that is why Simeone has decided to give him some rest.

Alvarez: A Key Player for Atletico Madrid and Argentina

Julian Alvarez has become one of the most important players for both Atletico Madrid and the Argentina national team. His ability to score goals, his constant pressing up front, and his versatility make him a key figure in "El Cholo's" tactical system. However, with the accumulation of minutes after several international qualifiers and constant competition in La Liga, Simeone has wisely decided to rest him in order to avoid potential fatigue or injury.

The Physical Demands of the World Cup Qualifiers: A Crucial Factor

The South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup have been intense for Argentina's players, and Alvarez has not been exempt. He played in both of the FIFA window matches with the national team, where his physical demands were very high. These matches are not only draining due to the intensity of the game, but also because of the long travel and the change in climate, which affects many players. Therefore, giving Alvarez some rest so he can recover his strength for upcoming league and European competition commitments is a logical and strategic decision.

Atletico Madrid: Focusing on the Long Season Ahead

Atletico Madrid has a season full of challenges ahead. Not only do they need to fight for top spots in La Liga, but they also have their sights set on the Champions League, where the team has aspirations of going far. For this reason, Simeone must carefully manage the playing time of his key players, like Alvarez, to ensure they are in their best form for the most crucial matches. Resting him now could be vital to prevent excessive fatigue in the long term.

What Can We Expect from Alvarez in the Near Future?

Alvarez is an essential player for Atletico Madrid, and there is no doubt that he will soon return to the starting XI. Although this temporary rest may cause some uncertainty among fans, Simeone's decision is in line with the idea of maximising the Argentine forward's availability and performance throughout the season.

The key lies in managing his playing time. In upcoming matches, Alvarez will likely return to the starting lineup and continue to show why he is one of the most sought-after players by Europe's elite clubs.