Zidane Warns Pérez: “Don’t Let Julián Álvarez Join Barcelona”

In a dramatic twist behind the scenes at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane has reportedly issued an emotional warning to club president Florentino Pérez, urging him to act swiftly to prevent Julián Álvarez from signing with FC Barcelona.

According to multiple Spanish reports, Zidane was alarmed by news that Barcelona have made serious progress in their pursuit of the Manchester City forward — a player now considered one of the most complete strikers in world football. The French icon, fully aware of what such a move could mean for Madrid’s dominance, is said to have told Pérez that allowing the transfer would be “a catastrophic mistake that could haunt Real Madrid for the next decade.”

“If Real Madrid allow Julián Álvarez to join Barcelona,” Zidane reportedly warned, “they risk another decade of pain. A striker like him could turn Spanish football upside down.”

Since arriving at Manchester City, Álvarez has flourished under Pep Guardiola, combining sharp movement, tireless pressing, and clinical finishing. At 25, he’s become a dream target for many top European clubs — and an ideal fit for Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, who are actively searching for a new attacking focal point.

Zidane, whose tactical philosophy emphasizes attacking balance and creativity, sees Álvarez as a player who could define a generation. Sources close to the former coach suggest he fears that if Barcelona succeed in signing the Argentine, they would regain both the technical advantage and psychological edge in Spanish football — something Madrid have carefully rebuilt since his own managerial era.

With Karim Benzema gone and Real Madrid still lacking a long-term No. 9, Zidane has reportedly urged Pérez to act decisively. Even with Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. leading the line, Zidane believes Álvarez would perfectly complement Madrid’s attack, creating one of the most dynamic front threes in Europe.

“Florentino must act fast,” a source close to Zidane’s camp told reporters. “This isn’t only about stopping Barcelona — it’s about building the next great Madrid side. Zidane sees Álvarez as the missing piece in that puzzle.”

Across Spain, the story has ignited intense debate among fans and pundits alike. Barcelona supporters are already imagining an attack featuring Álvarez, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri, while Madrid fans are urging the board not to repeat past mistakes by hesitating in the transfer market.

Analysts also see Zidane’s intervention as a reflection of the shifting power dynamics in La Liga. With Barcelona revitalized under Flick and Madrid transitioning from their golden generation, the battle for Spanish supremacy has become more strategic than ever — and the next big signing could prove decisive.

Though neither club has commented publicly, insiders report that Barcelona’s interest in Álvarez is genuine and that Manchester City may be open to a sale if a substantial offer arrives. Zidane’s warning has only heightened the stakes, with both sides aware that one transfer could once again alter the balance of power in Spain.

For Zidane, this isn’t just about one player — it’s about safeguarding Madrid’s future. “Every new era begins with a decisive signing,” he reportedly told colleagues. “Let’s make sure that signing belongs to Real Madrid — not Barcelona.”

As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Madrid’s response. Whether Pérez heeds Zidane’s advice or risks watching Álvarez in Barcelona colors could define not just one season, but the next chapter in El Clásico’s eternal rivalry.