Pep Guardiola has raved about Man City’s deadline day signing Julian Alvarez [Mancity.com].
The Citizens recently snapped the 22-year-old forward up from River Plate on a five-and-a-half-year contract for a reported £14m.
But he won’t be turning out at the Etihad any time soon.
That’s because he has remained at River on loan, with a view to joining up with City prior to the start of next season.
That’s not because Guardiola isn’t convinced about the player’s ability, though.
Pep raves about Man City-owned forward
“For the age, for the price, for many reasons for the future it is a really good deal,” said the City boss after confirming that Alvarez would play through the middle when he eventually arrives [Mancity.com]. “He is a guy who has a sense of goal, the quality, the movement in behind – a street player.”
“He is so dynamic. I think when he is playing the goal is there in his mind with the way he finishes and makes the movements over five metres.
“He has the desire, the passion and the strength without the ball.”
Alvarez has every chance of thriving at City
These comments from a world-renowned manager will surely provide a big confidence boost for Alvarez, who looks to have a big career ahead of him.
No one has picked up a handful of senior international caps for Argentina aged 22 without having a lot of ability.
His club stats – 36 goals and 25 assists in 96 appearances for River – are very impressive too for a player of his age.
If he can use his final few months in Argentina to gain more experience and further develop his game, there’s every chance he’ll take the Premier League by storm next season.
After all, there are few teams in world football who create as many chances as the current champions of England and therefore, few better teams to join if you’re a talented and hungry young striker.
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