Diego Simeone has thrown his full support behind Julián Álvarez, insisting Atlético Madrid will be patient with their striker as he works to rediscover his sharpness in front of goal.

The Argentine forward squandered a string of clear-cut chances on Sunday as Atlético Madrid fell to a 2-1 defeat against Barcelona at the Metropolitano — a result that will sting given the opportunities left untaken.

Simeone, however, was quick to defend his compatriot, signalling that the club have no intention of losing faith in a player they invested heavily in. The Atlético Madrid manager made clear that form fluctuates and that Álvarez will be given the time he needs to return to his best.