Why did a player with immense potential like Julian Alvarez leave a top European club like Manchester City? Before we answer that question, let us look at his current form at Atlético Madrid. Ever since his club-record move to Atlético Madrid in 2024 for an astounding €95 million, Julian Alvarez has proved himself to be a top-class player for the club. In fact, the Argentine striker scored 17 goals and assisted another 4 in his first La Liga season. He was also involved in 9 goals in just 13 games in the UEFA Champions out that season. Thus, he had an excellent debut season with the club from an individual perspective. The numbers continue to impress this season as well, with Alvarez being involved in 13 goals in just 14 appearances across all competitions this season. However, he is now facing a different issue at Atlético, which might again force him to leave a top European club.
Why did Julian Alvarez leave Pep Guardiola's Manchester City?
There was a lot of hype when Manchester City signed Julian Alvarez from River Plate for £14 million in 2022, as he was already being hyped up by that time as one of the most exciting young forwards in world football. In the months that followed, it became increasingly apparent that Alvarez possessed too much quality to be a player that was an understudy. He was excellent on most occasions for the Citizens whether it was from the bench or during the rare games where he was given starts. However, the biggest issue for him was that potential place in the team was taken by a certain Erling Haaland, who had established himself as the best striker in world football at the time. Thus it was almost impossible that Pep Guardiola would drop his Norwegian superstar and accommodate Alvarez as the star striker in the team. Most likely it was this realisation that made Alvarez make the difficult choice of leaving Manchester City in 2022, despite being part of a fantastic side that won the Premier League, Champions League, and even the Club World Cup.
Julian Alvarez contract situation at Atlético Madrid and what the future holds for him
Julian Alvarez has continued his solid development at Atlético Madrid after his record-breaking move, and is now arguably their best player. However, now he is facing another problem in his career. At City, he had the very best teammates around him that could together as a collective end up winning all the major titles. Things are different at Atlético Madrid though, as the club clearly doesn't possess enough players who are of the standard or quality of Alvarez that can lead them to win major silverware. Thus, a lot of magnificent performances are going in vain for Diego Simeone's side. He has also been constantly linked to the likes of Barcelona, Chelsea, and Liverpool as well for the past few months.
We feel the only solution for Julian Alvarez would be another record breaking move to Chelsea, Liverpool, Barcelona, or even a Real Madrid if Vinicius Jr or Rodrygo leaves. Our belief is that it'll eventually happen as well. Thus, another record breaking transfer move awaits Julian Alvarez according to us, especially since he signed a long 6-year contract with Atlético Madrid.
