Former Manchester City defender Pablo Zabaleta has tipped incoming signing Julian Alvarez to be a success at the club if Pep Guardiola puts his trust in the promising attacker.
Speaking to TNT Sport, the Etihad legend lauded the Argentina international following his first goal for the South American giants during the international break, with Alvarez currently back in his homeland on loan after being signed by City in January.
The 21-year-old attacker has been tipped by many to be the next superstar talent from Argentina to make waves in Europe, with City seemingly seeing potential in Alvarez after going big in the winter to sign the striker ahead of the likes of Inter Milan, Napoli and Newcastle United.
With City needing a striker next season, Alvarez could be the long-term successor to Sergio Aguero the club have been looking for. And for Zabaleta, the young Argentine could be a revelation if Guardiola gives the youngster the time to develop in the squad.
The former City defender said when asked about Alvarez: “If Pep trusts him next season, he could have a sensational player on his hands. Julian has the quality to be a striker for City. We have to see how Guardiola uses him.”
Alvarez could flourish at City if given time to develop under Pep
Talk ahead of the summer has seen City routinely linked with a move for Erling Haaland, yet next season could well see Alvarez lead the line if Guardiola misses out on the Borussia Dortmund star, which could well be a blessing in disguise.
After all, Alvarez has the potential to be a superstar at City if he is given the time to play regular football and develop his game, and given his current qualities, the Argentine is perfect for Guardiola to mould into the ideal striker for the Manchester giants.
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