Julian Alvarez endured a difficult return to action for Atletico Madrid on Sunday, as his own supporters greeted him with whistles and boos during a 2-2 home draw against Villarreal — and the incident has only intensified speculation over his future.

The Argentine forward, who publicly expressed his desire to leave Atletico Madrid during the World Cup, entered the pitch in the 66th minute to jeers that had already begun when his name was read out before kick-off. After the final whistle, Alvarez walked off the pitch alone while his team-mates remained on the field to acknowledge the supporters.