How did Alvarez apologize to Atletico Madrid fans after shocking statements about his future?

(CNN) - Julián Alvarez scored a goal, through which he led his club, Atletico Madrid, to victory over Deportivo La Coruna, at the first stadium, on Saturday, in the matches of the tenth round of the Spanish League (La Liga).

Alvarez's goal, his first in LaLiga in months, came in the 48th minute, as he put the ball into the net from inside the penalty area.

After the match, the Argentine striker was keen to apologize to the Atletico Madrid fans, after he announced his desire to leave and move to Barcelona, on the sidelines of his participation with his country’s national team in the 2026 World Cup.

His controversial statements caused him to be excluded from the Atletico Madrid squad for some matches, and he was met with boos and criticism from the club's supporters.

In statements reported by the "TNT SPORTS" network on Sunday, Julián Alvarez said: "I would like to apologize to our fans for what I said at the World Cup. It was a mistake in terms of the way I said it and its timing."

He added: "I understand why the fans are angry. If I were a fan, I would be angry too, especially considering the support they have given me since my arrival."

The 26-year-old continued: “I hope I can change this situation with hard work and humility.”

He continued: "I feel better in the last matches, both physically and in terms of controlling the ball. I want to help the team and do my best."