Julián Álvarez, the Argentine striker currently facing a goal drought with 11 matches without scoring, finds himself at the center of the narrative surrounding Atlético de Madrid's recent performances. This situation is exacerbated by the team’s recent home defeat to Real Betis, where they lost 1-0, having previously enjoyed a dominant victory over the same opponent in the Copa del Rey just days earlier. The stark contrast in performance has raised questions about the team's consistency and strategy as they trail significantly behind Barcelona in the title race.

Diego Simeone’s frustrations are palpable as Atlético Madrid slips further from the league leaders, now trailing by 13 points. Such defeats not only affect the team's morale but also jeopardize their standing, as they risk falling to fourth place if Villarreal capitalizes on their games in hand. This predicament prompts a deeper examination of Simeone’s tactics and the overall form of key players, most notably Álvarez, who had shown great promise but has been unable to find the back of the net for an extended period.

Moreover, the return of an impressive former Boca Juniors striker into the conversation adds another layer of intrigue to the current scenario. As the football season progresses, the performances of both Atlético and Santiago’s former colleagues showcase the unpredictability of football, highlighting how quickly fortunes can change in a matter of days. This narrative serves as a reminder of the continual pressures faced by players and coaches in the high-stakes environment of Spanish La Liga.