Former Manchester City player and BBC Sport pundit Micah Richards has lauded Julian Alvarez as the standout performer for Pep Guardiola’s team this season, surpassing even Erling Haaland.
Richards highlighted Alvarez’s effectiveness in Manchester City’s tactical setup, particularly in the number 10 role just behind Haaland.
Alvarez, a versatile 23-year-old Argentina international capable of playing as a winger, forward, or attacking midfielder, has showcased his prowess by contributing three goals and three assists in eight Premier League games this season.
In addition to his Premier League contributions, Alvarez has also made a notable impact in the UEFA Champions League, registering three goals and one assist in just one start and one substitute appearance.
On the other hand, Haaland, the prolific Norwegian striker, has netted eight goals and provided one assist in eight Premier League matches this season but has yet to score in the Champions League.
Richards emphasized Alvarez’s versatility and acknowledged that while both Alvarez and Haaland are formidable upfront, Guardiola has tactically utilized Alvarez alongside Haaland, a move that has evidently been effective.
Alvarez’s adaptability and strong performances have been vital for Manchester City, especially in their pursuit of success across various competitions, including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and FA Cup.
With Alvarez’s significant role in the Argentina national team’s triumph at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Richards expressed confidence that Alvarez will continue to play a pivotal role for Manchester City throughout the season, contributing to their aspirations of clinching multiple trophies.
Alvarez’s dynamic contributions and tactical value have positioned him as a critical asset for Manchester City, showcasing his ability to thrive in different attacking roles and significantly contribute to the team’s success on multiple fronts.
