Rodri boosts Barquero in the race for Julian Álvarez
In the La Araña office, the announcement of the split with Fernando Hidalgo resonated while the Atlético de Madrid striker, Julián Álvarez, began to look for a new agent, with the representative of Rodri Hernández, Pablo Barquero, already among the candidates.
Pastore and Barquero top the list
Periodista Deportivo reported that the dance of possible representatives for Julián Álvarez has begun, with Javier Pastore and Pablo Barquero topping the list. Pastore, former Argentine footballer and head of the agency The Elegant Game, also represents Enzo Fernández. Barquero, agent of Rodri Hernández, stands out for his low‑profile and his experience in negotiations with top‑level clubs.
The personal link between Pastore and the striker, reinforced in recent months, favors the Argentine as a close and trusted option.
Barquero has been linked to the 2024 Ballon d'Or since Álvarez was thirteen and has accompanied his career through Villarreal, Atlético and City. His portfolio also includes Sarabia and the coaches Raúl González and Juan Manuel Lillo.
Beyond Pastore and Barquero, the renowned Jorge Mendes has held talks with the circle of the World Cup champion in Qatar, although his profile does not inspire full confidence and the striker would decline his proposal.
Split with Hidalgo and its repercussions
The future of Julián Álvarez in the offices entered a new phase after settling the end of his professional link with Fernando Hidalgo, his representative for almost a decade. The split is better understood in the light of a scandalous summer, in which a bombshell statement by the footballer during the World Cup ignited a dispute between Atlético, Barcelona and the agent of La Araña. The transfer did not go ahead and the wear and tear became evident.
Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, red‑and‑white chief executive, accused the agent of having deceived and confused his client. Hidalgo responded with an ironic message on social media.
With the link with Hidalgo now ended, the choice of the next representative has become a decision of special importance for Julián and his family.