Arsenal are looking to swipe a jewel from Manchester City’s crown, and the jewel itself wants to be taken. This jewel is none other than Julian Alvarez, who has voiced his dissatisfaction with being left out of City’s key matches under Pep Guardiola.
Is this the end for Julian Alvarez at Man City? Arsenal hope so
The 24-year-old World Cup and Copa America-winning Argentinian forward is nothing short of spectacular. He appeared in 54 matches across all competitions last season, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists. Although Alvarez was impressive, Pep Guardiola picked Erling Haaland in the starting lineup ahead of him in ample of big games, and quite understandably. However, the constant snub in important games has forced Alvarez to ponder about his future at the Etihad stadium.
Alvarez is currently in Paris with the Argentine team for the Olympic Games. Speaking to DSports Radio about his future, he said:
“I haven’t stopped to think about what I’m going to do. Last season, I was one of the players who played the most minutes in the team. But it’s true: in the end, in some important games, it’s not pleasant to be left out. I will have time to consider my decision. I haven’t stopped to think things through calmly. Once the Olympic Games are over, I will take the time to reflect on what I want for myself.”
Guardiola facing rebellion as suitors line up
La Liga giants Atletico Madrid are interested in the striker as they see him as the perfect replacement for Alvaro Morata, who left for AC Milan earlier this summer.
The Argentine is also eyed by London-duo of Chelsea and Arsenal, who are waiting to seize the opportunity, with City reportedly open to offers of £60 million plus £17 million in add-ons for the striker before the transfer window closes.
The striker joined City from River Plate for £14 million in 2022. Despite having the eighth-highest number of minutes for City last season, Alvarez has grown frustrated with the lack of trust in his abilities at the Etihad Stadium. After the Paris Olympics, the 24-year-old might take some time to evaluate his options and decide whether to stay with City or be swayed by interest from other clubs.
Man City to Arsenal – The pathway is defined for Julian Alvarez
Arsenal under Mikel Arteta have already brought in a couple of highly acclaimed players from Manchester City in Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko. The duo have been a crucial part of the Gunners project, with the former inducted in the core leadership group.
Both the players saw a surge in opportunities, trust, and backing from the supporters once they moved to the Emirates Stadium.
Julian Alvarez can do the similar if a potential move to Arsenal concludes.
Author’s Opinion
While Man City let the likes of Jesus and Zinny leave for Arsenal, it is highly unlikely of them to hand over another highly potential product to their title rivals going into next summer. Moreover, it is also more likely that the forward will end up with the Cityzens at the conclusion of the window despite links with a move away from his current employers.