Julián and his Champions League romance to win back Atlético fans

Julián Álvarez is back amongst the goals. Now he must win back the hearts of the supporters.

In Stuttgart, 'The Spider' ended a 174-day drought for Atlético, taking the first step towards rebuilding a connection with fans whose faith he desperately needs to rekindle. His strike against the German side, which rescued a point for Atlético, was also the Argentine's 50th goal in the red-and-white shirt in 114 appearances.

It is a milestone that recalls the immense impact of his arrival and the lofty expectations placed on a player destined to define an era at the Metropolitano. Since his previous goal,on 29 April against Arsenal, far too many matches had passed without Julián getting his reward.

His first goal of the season arrives at a moment when he must turn chances into certainties and dispel the doubts that have dogged his performances and the persistent noise surrounding his future. The Champions League remains his favoured stomping ground.

In 28 matches in Europe's premier competition for the Rojiblancos, Julián has tallied 18 goals and six assists. Since joining Atlético, he has been directly involved in 24 of the team's 61 goals in Europe-amounting to 39% of the total.

It is an enduring romance that explains much of his value to the club's project, standing in stark contrast to recent struggles following his push for a move to Barcelona. In Stuttgart, the Champions League once again offered the perfect stage to rediscover his rhythm and remind everyone why Atlético invested in him.

Future 'The goal was a wonder strike. I am delighted for him, because we need him.

' Diego Simeone Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone celebrated the goal, but above all praised the Argentine's tireless work ethic during the match. 'He put in an incredible physical shift: he played upfront, he worked hard as a left midfielder.

and the goal was a wonder strike,' the manager noted, also highlighting how much the team need him back at his best: 'I am delighted for him, because we need him. ' 'El Cholo' commended his ability to fill various roles, spearhead attacks, and sacrifice himself defensively.