Alvarez 'blossoms' at Atletico Madrid

Julian Alvarez shines at Atletico Madrid - Photo: REUTERS

Many people believe that Man City's decline in strength comes from the huge void that Rodri left in midfield - a completely well-founded opinion.

But few people notice that the absence of a versatile striker like Julian Alvarez has quietly eroded the flexibility in the defending champion's playing style.

After years of great success with Man City, Alvarez chose to leave the Etihad Stadium to seek new challenges.

Despite his impressive performances for Man City and the national team, in Pep Guardiola's eyes, he is still just a backup option for Erling Haaland - who is prioritized in a formation with only one striker. That makes Alvarez disappointed because he wants to play more often instead of just being a supporting actor.

Atletico Madrid understood the Argentine's wishes and quickly seized the opportunity. The Spanish team was ready to meet Alvarez's every request. That was clearly shown by spending 81.5 million pounds to bring him back. Without much hesitation, Alvarez accepted the invitation and began a new chapter in his career in La Liga.

Joining the Wanda Metropolitano team in the summer of 2024, Julian Alvarez quickly proved his worth and became an important factor in coach Diego Simeone's squad.

With his versatility, speed and sharp finishing ability, he takes on the role of main striker, often playing alongside another striker or playing as a flexible "false 9".

In his first season, Alvarez adapted very quickly to Diego Simeone's tactical system, and immediately became the leader of the attack. "The Spider-Man" contributed a total of 29 goals and 6 assists in 51 matches.

This is the highest scoring season of Alvarez's professional career to date, surpassing the record of 26 goals for River Plate in 2021.

Alvarez has shown us his diverse scoring ability this season. From sharp finishing skills, long-range shots to direct free kicks. Most recently, "Spider-Man" scored a masterpiece with a free kick from a distance of 30m that left all witnesses in awe.

Not only does Alvarez do a good job of scoring goals, he is also very active in supporting the defense. He attacks and defends rhythmically with abundant energy for Simeone's typical pressing style. Now, Alvarez has become an indispensable link in coach Diego Simeone's tactical system.

The 2024-2025 season can be considered a successful season for Julian Alvarez in Atletico Madrid. He not only affirmed his scoring ability but also showed great adaptation to the new environment and became an indispensable pillar of the team.

Alvarez's rise was a big bright spot for Atletico Madrid as they continued to secure a place in next season's Champions League after finishing third in the Spanish National Championship this season.

TUAN LONG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/alvarez-no-ro-o-atletico-madrid-20250520140056161.htm