the Man City battling to keep Julian Alvarez

Julian Alvarez is already one of the most decorated football players in the world, having won back-to-back Premier League titles, the Champions League, and the World Cup during his two years at Manchester City.

The Argentina international joined Manchester City from his boyhood club River Plate in 2022, with great expectations. So far, he has not disappointed. Despite being considered Erling Haaland’s backup, the 24-year-old has performed admirably.

With 11 goals and nine assists in 35 Premier League starts and five goals in seven Champions League games last season, his ability to lead the line for any great team is undeniable. It’s no surprise therefore that Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly interested in the player.

Striker Robert Lewandowski is drawing interest from Saudi Arabia and could be persuaded away with a large cash offer. Barcelona will need a striker to replace the Polish international, and Alvarez has been identified as the guy who can fill the vacuum.

Paris Saint-Germain, on the other hand, have a hole to fill. The transfer of star forward Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid has left the French giants severely shorthanded up front. Alvarez is regarded as a viable candidate to replace the Frenchman.

According to reports, Manchester City is not interested in making a deal because the club does not intend to sell the player. However, the existence of Haaland means Alvarez will continue to play a supporting role as long as

Because of Kevin De Bruyne’s lengthy injury layoff, the Argentine international played a significant amount of minutes last season. This gave him the opportunity to play beside Haaland or behind the striker several times. But he saw less playing time near the end of the season as the Belgian returned to assist City win another league title.

Unless De Bruyne decides to go, Alvarez may explore his possibilities for regular playing time in the upcoming season. If the 24-year-old decides he wants to transfer elsewhere, it will put City in a difficult situation.

Even if De Bruyne left, Alvarez’s regular game time is not guaranteed because Haaland plays his preferred position and the wings are already covered. So the temptation to pursue a new challenge elsewhere will be overwhelming. City will have to work hard to keep the player next season, as a genuine bid from any of Europe’s elite clubs might see him seek new pastures.