City’s struggles deepen after Alvarez’s Atletico success

By Martin Graham | 12th Dec 2024

When reflecting on Pep Guardiola’s transfer missteps at Manchester City, Cole Palmer’s name frequently arises. Since his departure to Chelsea in the summer of 2023, the forward has emerged as one of the Premier League’s standout players. However, a more recent transfer is beginning to overshadow that narrative.

The sale of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid in August 2024 has left many questioning the decision. Guardiola himself admitted at the time that it “could be a problem” if injuries plagued his squad. Few could have anticipated the dramatic impact Alvarez would have at his new club.

Alvarez’s stellar form at Atletico

The Argentine forward, who joined Atletico for a reported £81 million, has been in remarkable form this season. On Wednesday, the 24-year-old netted his 12th goal of the campaign, playing a pivotal role in Atletico’s Champions League victory over Slovan Bratislava. Alvarez also contributed to Antoine Griezmann’s two goals, extending Atletico’s winning streak to 10 games across all competitions.

Former footballer Nigel Spackman praised Alvarez’s performance, telling TNT Sport: “He is a striker that is making the game look so easy at the moment.”

While Alvarez’s numbers may not yet rival Palmer’s 57 goal involvements in 62 games for Chelsea, his 12 goals and two assists in 24 appearances have been instrumental for Atletico. The Madrid side is currently third in La Liga, three points behind leaders Barcelona, and making strides in the Champions League.

In contrast, Manchester City has struggled. Key players like Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, and Jeremy Doku have battled injuries and inconsistent form, leading to just one win in their last 10 matches. Despite Erling Haaland scoring 18 goals in all competitions this season, City’s next-highest scorers have managed just three goals apiece.

Alvarez’s Champions League performances further highlight his talent. With nine goals and three assists in 12 starts, he boasts one of the best minutes-per-goal ratios in the competition’s history, second only to Haaland. Griezmann lauded his teammate, saying, “Julian is an outstanding player. It’s a joy and a source of pride to have him with us.”

Why did Alvarez leave City?

Alvarez joined Manchester City from River Plate in 2022 and delivered an impressive 36 goals and 18 assists in 103 appearances. Despite his contributions and the trophies he helped secure, including the Premier League and Champions League, the World Cup winner often found himself behind Haaland in the pecking order.

Guardiola revealed that Alvarez requested a transfer, seeking a “new challenge.” While the City manager was reluctant to let him go, he ultimately respected the player’s wishes.

“He believes his period here must be over, so both clubs reached an agreement,” Guardiola explained. “He’s incredibly loved by the team for his behaviour, but he wanted a new challenge.”

Guardiola admitted the decision could backfire if injuries struck his squad, but he remained confident in the depth provided by players like Oscar Bobb, Phil Foden, James McAtee, and Bernardo Silva. “Maybe it is a mistake, I don’t know,” he said.

As Alvarez continues to shine in Spain, City’s struggles have intensified scrutiny over his departure. While only time will tell the full impact of the decision, the Argentine’s success at Atletico is already casting a long shadow over the reigning Premier League champions.