Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has sent a clear message to striker Julian Alvarez amidst transfer talks with Atletico Madrid. The Spanish club has shown interest in the Argentine player and initiated discussions with Manchester City.
Julian Alvarez is currently on the radar of Atletico Madrid. The Spaniards opened talks with Manchester City on Saturday, expressing their interest in acquiring the striker. This move comes after Alvarez's Olympic campaign ended on Friday and his future at Manchester City became uncertain due to his limited playtime last season.
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, said:
"He's absolutely our player. He will come back. I count on him, but he said in the news and decisions will be made all together. Now has to rest and when he feels ready to come back he will come back. I'm sure when he comes back I'll hug and congratulate for the Copa America, for the Olympics, and we will start to work together. This is the reality.
"What happens in the meantime, I have a thousand million things to think about the team , if we are ready. Next week we play for the first trophy of the season. Two weeks we play at Stamford Bridge again, that's my only concern."
Guardiola stance remains firm
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Pep Guardiola wants Julian Alvarez to remain part of his squad for this season. Responding to comments made by Alvarez about considering his future after being left out for bigger games last season, Guardiola was fairly blunt but did not provide any updates regarding the player's transfer status.
Following a friendly win over Chelsea, he stated that he is preparing for the new season with Julian as part of his plans. This statement indicates that despite external interests and internal uncertainties, Guardiola sees value in keeping Alvarez within his team. In light of these developments and comments from both parties involved, there seems to be some tension brewing between them. However, it appears that efforts are being made from both sides to cool down this situation.
Alvarez has tried to defuse tensions without explicitly confirming whether he wishes to stay at Manchester City or not. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid must meet Manchester City’s valuation if they wish to persuade them into selling their prized asset - an indication that any potential deal will have financial implications as well.
No more signings envisaged
Guardiola also addressed another question regarding potential signings during this transfer window period. He expressed satisfaction with the depth available in his squad and stated that he does not envisage more signings in the market. This suggests that Guardiola is confident in his current team's ability to perform and compete at the highest level.
Pep Guardiola added:
"We don't need it, we have enough depth. I'm not a guy who likes to have a lot of players in the squad."
While Atletico Madrid has shown interest in Julian Alvarez, Pep Guardiola seems determined to keep him at Manchester City. The final decision will likely depend on whether Atletico can meet City's valuation and if Alvarez decides to stay or move on from Manchester City. Regardless of the outcome, this situation serves as a testament to Alvarez’s talent and potential as a footballer.
