UEFA Highlights Guardiola's Mistake in Underutilizing Julián Álvarez

The Argentine striker's departure from Manchester City is still considered one of Guardiola's biggest mistakes. UEFA published a video of Julian Alvarez's superb goal for Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, which can be interpreted as a dart at Pep Guardiola who wasted it at Manchester City.

Guardiola's Mistake in Letting Julian Álvarez Leave for Atlético Madrid

Pep Guardiola’s decision to let Julian Álvarez leave Manchester City on loan to Atlético Madrid in the summer of 2025 has sparked significant debate. The Argentine striker, who had been a standout performer for the Cityzens in his debut season, was expected to provide strong competition for the attacking positions, with his versatility and goal-scoring prowess. However, Guardiola’s decision to let him go has raised questions about the wisdom of such a move, especially given Álvarez’s potential and the current state of City’s attacking options.

Julian Álvarez joined Manchester City from River Plate in early 2022, with the club seeing immense potential in the young striker. His impressive performances in Argentina’s domestic league and his stellar showing for the national team during their victorious 2022 World Cup campaign made him a highly sought-after talent. When he arrived at City, it was clear that Álvarez was a player with a lot to offer — a forward who could press, create, and score. His versatility allowed him to operate both as a central striker and as a supporting forward, making him a valuable asset in Guardiola’s attacking system.

In his first season with City, Álvarez proved to be an excellent addition. He often played second fiddle to Erling Haaland but still managed to make significant contributions when called upon. Álvarez’s energy, work ethic, and technical ability were undeniable, and his performances in the Premier League, as well as in the Champions League, demonstrated that he had the quality to thrive at the highest level. In fact, his work off the ball and his ability to stretch defenses created space for other attackers, making him a key part of City’s attacking rotation. His adaptability, combined with his ability to score in crucial moments, made him a reliable option for Guardiola.

Given these qualities, many expected Álvarez to play a more prominent role in the upcoming season. However, Guardiola’s decision to allow the striker to leave on loan to Atlético Madrid is perplexing, especially considering the current depth and balance of City’s attacking options. While Haaland remains the undisputed starting striker, Guardiola had the opportunity to maintain Álvarez as a vital backup or even as a regular rotation option. The loan move to Atlético Madrid, a direct rival for European supremacy, raised immediate concerns about City’s forward depth, particularly in a highly competitive season with domestic and European aspirations.

One of the key reasons why this decision seems to be a mistake is the unpredictable nature of football injuries. Haaland, for all his talent, has struggled with injuries in the past, and given the relentless nature of the Premier League and City’s fixture congestion, it’s likely that there will be moments when the team needs an alternative to lead the line. With Álvarez, Guardiola would have had an option that could seamlessly step in and maintain the attacking firepower of the team. His dynamic style and hunger for goals would have been invaluable in ensuring City remains competitive in all competitions.

Furthermore, Álvarez’s ability to press high and create chances could have complemented Guardiola’s tactical setup, where intensity and high pressing are crucial components. His work rate and his understanding of the game made him an ideal player for Guardiola’s philosophy, and it seems a missed opportunity to let such a talent leave on loan rather than integrating him more into the first team.

Atlético Madrid, under Diego Simeone, is a club that values hard work, discipline, and tactical acumen, all qualities that Álvarez possesses. His move to Spain could prove to be a good one for his development, as he will likely receive more playing time and a prominent role in Atlético’s attacking setup. However, it remains to be seen how this move impacts City in the long run. With the growing competition in European football, Guardiola could find himself regretting the loss of Álvarez, especially if injuries to Haaland or other attacking players occur.

Another aspect of this decision is the potential impact it could have on City’s future. Álvarez is a young player with enormous potential, and his performances at Atlético Madrid could increase his value, potentially making him an even more sought-after player in the future. Should he return to City in the near future, he could find himself in an even more competitive environment for a starting role, making it difficult to integrate him into the squad. Additionally, there’s the possibility that other clubs might come in for Álvarez if he continues to shine in La Liga, complicating City’s plans to bring him back.

In conclusion, Guardiola’s decision to send Julian Álvarez on loan to Atlético Madrid raises several questions. While Guardiola’s tactical decisions and squad rotations are generally backed by a proven track record, this particular move could be one he regrets. Álvarez’s versatility, work ethic, and goal-scoring ability were assets that could have been crucial for City this season. As the campaign progresses, Guardiola might find himself wishing he had kept Álvarez in his squad, especially in times of injury or fatigue when depth in attack is essential. Only time will tell if this decision will ultimately prove to be a costly one for Manchester City.