- Alvarez hinted at a potential reevaluation of his Man City career this summer
- Guardiola provided a direct reply during the team’s pre-season tour in the United States
- The Argentine striker claims he is content at the Premier League champions
Julian Alvarez clarified that he did not express any negativity following Pep Guardiola’s candid remark regarding his future at Manchester City.
Alvarez is presently competing at the Olympic Games in Paris, having had a bustling summer after winning the Copa America earlier this month.
The 24-year-old implied he might contemplate his Man City future post-Olympics, expressing disappointment over not starting in finals with the club.
Although Alvarez logged the fifth-most minutes among City players last season, he has yet to start in any major finals during his tenure at the club.
Notably, he scored 36 goals over two seasons, yet often finds himself overshadowed by Erling Haaland in the starting lineup or taking on a more reserved role.
Julian Alvarez has affirmed his satisfaction at Man City in light of Guardiola’s remarks.
Guardiola reacted straightforwardly to Alvarez’s concerns regarding missing out on finals.
‘Last season, I logged significant game time at City. However, being sidelined during crucial games is not ideal; I crave the opportunity to contribute,’ Alvarez stated.
‘I will take my time to evaluate my future. We’ll see what happens after the Games. If possible, I will take a few days to unwind before making a decision.’
Guardiola was queried about Alvarez’s remarks during Manchester City’s pre-season tour in the US, to which he provided a direct reply.
‘I don’t ponder replacement options. I understand he mentioned he would consider it,’ he remarked.
‘After he has finished reflecting, his agent will contact Txiki [Begiristain] and we will see how things unfold.
‘I recognize he desires engagement during significant moments, yeah. However, plenty of other players also want to participate in these crucial matches. 18 to 19 players are also vying for these opportunities.’
‘I read that he wants to contemplate the situation. Well, take your time to think it through and subsequently inform us of your wishes.’
When asked about Guardiola’s comment, Alvarez maintained that he did not overstep any boundaries regarding his status at the club.
The forward expressed his ongoing satisfaction at Man City, emphasizing that he assesses his situation at the end of each season.
‘I acknowledged Guardiola’s comments. I don’t have much more to add,’ Alvarez conveyed, as reported by TyC Sports.
The 24-year-old forward is currently representing Argentina at the Olympic Games in Paris.
‘I never uttered anything negative.’
‘What I articulated was my intention to reflect on the past season and consider what lies ahead.
‘I consistently express my comfort and happiness at City, a truly remarkable club. Therefore, I did not say anything wrong.’
City acquired Alvarez from River Plate in January 2022 for £14 million, allowing him to be loaned back for half a season.
In his debut season at Man City, he emerged as the team’s second top scorer while starting fewer than half of their matches, contributing a key goal against Chelsea during their title chase.
Last year, he secured a lucrative new contract valued at around £100,000, set to expire in 2028.
The 24-year-old boasts victories in the 2022 World Cup and Copa America with Argentina, as well as the Champions League, FA Cup, and two Premier League titles with Man City.
