Álex Baena, the Spanish midfielder for Atlético Madrid, has spoken out regarding statements made by his teammate, Argentine forward Julián Álvarez, who recently requested a transfer aiming to fulfill a personal dream.
Baena admitted he was somewhat surprised by the public nature of the declaration: "Yes, it was a bit surprising because I didn’t expect such words from a teammate. But it’s a personal matter, and if it’s his dream, I would tell him to pursue it." He added that while he might have handled it differently, he respects Álvarez's choice and understands his ambition.
He also highlighted the club’s role: "Players are just a part of the team. If Atlético doesn’t want to sell him, that decision must be respected." Regarding Atlético’s reported complaint to FIFA against Barcelona for alleged inappropriate conduct, Baena said it was the first he heard of it and commented, "Every club has to defend its rights and what belongs to it."
