Pep sends message to Man City star Julian Alvarez ahead of World Cup final
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that he has been impressed by Julian Alvarez’s form for Argentina ahead of the World Cup final.
Alvarez has managed to cement himself as a regular starter for the South Americans at the World Cup, partnering Lionel Messi in a strong front two. The 22-year-old enjoyed a particularly impressive outing on Tuesday as he helped guide his country to the final.
After winning the penalty for Argentina’s first, he netted an incredible solo effort to double their lead against Croatia. Messi provided the perfect assist for Alvarez to score the third after the interval to wrap up a comprehensive victory.
Only France stand between the City star and World Cup glory. Ahead of the match, his club manager commented on Alvarez’s spell in the Middle East.
Speaking to City’s in-house media, Guardiola said: “All of us are very happy for him. He will play the final that will happen and then he will have a few days off to rest and then he will come back.”
Guardiola was speaking after watching a side mixed with first-team players and academy stars beat Girona 2-0 at the Academy Stadium. Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland both scored as City prepared for the return of competitive action on Thursday.
Discussing the performance, Guardiola said: “Yeah, really good. It is the first game after a long, long time, especially for some players who didn’t play much.
“They went a long time without playing like Erling, like Sergio [Gomez], like Riyad [Mahrez] so yeah, good.” City will face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup next week with the winner progressing to the quarter-finals of the competition.
