Derby Tensions Boil Over on Social Media
Atletico Madrid did not simply reject Real Madrid’s €150 million offer for Julian Alvarez — they publicly eviscerated it. In a series of blistering social media posts on Tuesday, the Rojiblancos responded to their arch-rivals’ official communiqué with withering sarcasm and a four-point rebuttal that has gone viral across the football world.
The Four Clarifications
Atletico’s response began with laughing emojis directed at Real Madrid’s statement, before delivering what they called “four clarifications”:
First: “You cut the video of the Pope where he said he also supports Atletico.”
Second: “You seem to have confused education with gratitude. To be clear: we thank you for nothing.”
Third: “We are neither studying nor evaluating any offer for Julian.”
Fourth: “How could we not get along when you make us laugh even more than Barcelona?”
Florentino Perez in the Crosshairs
The statement also took a personal swipe at newly re-elected Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez: “Taking advantage of the good relations with your new president — let’s see if you stop stealing players from our academy.”
This last barb cuts deep. Atletico have long accused Real of poaching young talent from their youth system, and the accusation carries particular weight given Pérez’s renewed mandate and his promise of a galactico signing.
The Offer That Never Was
Real Madrid had earlier confirmed they submitted a €150 million proposal for Alvarez, who scored 20 goals in 49 appearances this season under Diego Simeone. The bid was immediately dead on arrival, with Atletico pointing to the Argentine’s €500 million release clause as the only acceptable valuation.
More Than Just Banter
While the exchange has delighted neutrals, it also reflects the deepening hostility between Madrid’s two giants. The relationship between Pérez and Atletico president Enrique Cerezo has soured in recent years over transfer disputes, and this latest episode suggests the 2026-27 season will be fought as fiercely in the boardroom as on the pitch.
Source: RMC Sport
