The Victors

Partially, it's that I have come around to the idea that Barca can win this year without a traditional striker because of the way that Hansi is going to deploy the front line. Partially, it's that I am enjoying the shit out of how Atleti are completely up in their feelings about this situation. The smart play would be to bilk a massive fee out of Barca for Alvarez, which Laporta would absolutely do. This situation screams BARCA ARE GOING TO OVERPAY FOR A PLAYER BECAUSE THEY HAVE BECOME FIXATED ON HIM AND HAVE EXCLUDED OTHER OPTIONS. Atleti's roster needs strengthening in several spots, which Cholo has said repeatedly.

The way it looks like it it going to play out right now is that Atleti are going to refuse to negotiate with Barca and Julian is going to refuse to consider other options. Atleti are going to be left with a want-away striker who is being whistled by his fans and a roster that is not sufficient to compete for the biggest trophies. They are going to piss away their season over pride. Cue Marcellus Wallace...