Lee Kang-in substitution sparks storm of boos, even "Get out now" insults... ATM fans furious, Alvarez treated as a "traitor"

*This content was translated by AI.

As South Korea national team striker Lee Kang-in headed to the bench, a massive wave of boos erupted at his home stadium. However, the target of the anger was not Lee Kang-in. It was his teammate Julian Alvarez, who entered the field at the same moment.

On the 24th (Korean time), Atletico Madrid drew 2-2 against Villarreal in a Round 2 match of the 2026-2027 Spanish La Liga at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid, Spain.

Lee Kang-in made his first league start since joining Atletico Madrid. In the opening match against Malaga, he came off the bench and scored a spectacular debut goal. In this match, he was deployed as an attacker in Atletico's 3-5-2 formation, playing alongside Ademola Lookman.

Although he failed to contribute to the scoring, Lee Kang-in kept moving constantly for 66 minutes, injecting energy into his team's attack. He attempted three shots, actively targeting the opponent's goal, and created two good opportunities. His pass success rate was 81%. He also contributed defensively with two tackles and one interception.

Lee Kang-in was substituted off in the 22nd minute of the second half by Pablo Barrios. It was at this exact moment that the atmosphere in the stadium changed dramatically.

Intense boos erupted throughout the Metropolitano. They were not directed at Lee Kang-in. The boos were aimed at Alvarez, who entered the field at the same substitution timing.

Argentine striker Alvarez is a key asset for Atletico Madrid but has been facing fierce criticism from home fans over his transfer issues this summer. When FC Barcelona of La Liga showed interest in acquiring him with a transfer fee of 100 million euros (approximately 160 billion won), Alvarez publicly stated in June that he wanted to leave the team.

At that time, Alvarez said, "I have spoken with Atletico Madrid club officials. I believe transferring is the best option for everyone," and added, "I want to fulfill my dreams."

Following these shocking remarks, the competition to sign Alvarez intensified. Even Real Madrid, Atletico's biggest rival, entered the race. According to local reports, Real Madrid offered a staggering 150 million euros (approximately 242 billion won).

However, Atletico Madrid remained firm in its stance. It insisted that it could not sell Alvarez. There was no urgency for Atletico either. Alvarez's contract runs until 2030, and his buyout clause is a massive 500 million euros (approximately 800 billion won).

Ultimately, the transfer did not materialize. The uneasy coexistence between Atletico Madrid and Alvarez continued.

However, staying at the club did not win back the fans' hearts. Spanish media Cadena Ser reported, "When Alvarez's name was announced during player introductions, the stadium erupted in such strong boos that it seemed to shake," adding, "Atletico Madrid fans view Alvarez as a 'traitor' because he attempted to leave for Barcelona, which is considered their biggest rival alongside Real Madrid."

The atmosphere did not improve even in the second half. The media explained, "When Alvarez appeared to warm up, another wave of massive boos echoed throughout the Metropolitano."

Some fans' reactions were even harsher. Reports indicate that from the stands, chants mixed with insults such as "Get out now" were directed at Alvarez, and remarks insulting Barcelona followed.

And when Alvarez actually entered the field at the moment Lee Kang-in was substituted off, the boos reached their peak. The media stated, "As soon as Alvarez came on, enormous boos erupted throughout the stadium," adding, "Especially from the stands, strong boos and chants continued."

It further noted, "Now, Alvarez must show good performances throughout the season to regain the trust of some fans who have turned their backs on him."

However, on this day, he failed to win back fan support through his performance. After being substituted in, Alvarez recorded no valid shots and had only 12 touches of the ball.

Alvarez, who left Manchester City (England) in 2024 to wear the Atletico Madrid jersey, scored 17 goals in the league during his first season, 2024-2025, earning the love of home fans. Last season, he also recorded 8 goals and 4 assists in the league, playing a key role in the attack. However, within just a few months, the atmosphere changed completely. Alvarez has now fallen into the status of a "traitor."

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.