Pep Guardiola reveals what Julian Alvarez said to him in private talks to force Atletico Madrid transfer

Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has disclosed what Julian Alvarez said to him behind his back to compel his transfer to Atletico Madrid.

Alvarez will be joining Atletico Madrid after City turned down a record-breaking £81.5 million deal for the player.

The 24-year-old is expected to board a flight to Madrid on Sunday in order to sign a five-year contract and go through a physical on Monday.

Even though City would benefit handsomely on the £14 million they paid for Alvarez in 2022, the reigning Premier League winners have no intention of offloading the Argentina international.

Alvarez made significant contributions to City’s historic treble-winning 2022–23 season and carried that success into the previous campaign.

Even though Alvarez made 103 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s team and scored 36 goals and provided 18 assists, Erling Haaland frequently forced him out of the starting lineup for the team’s biggest games.

In remarks to the media on Friday, before of the Community Shield game at Wembley on Saturday, Guardiola disclosed that Alvarez had expressed his desire for a fresh challenge.

The City manager reportedly told Sam Lee of The Athletic, “He said to me he wants a new challenge, he feels it’s what he needs to do.”

He played a lot last season, sometimes even with Erling [Haaland], but I understand that there were times when he didn’t play.

“I have often told the club that they ultimately make the final decision. However, I contend that agreements may be violated, so why are you still here if you’re not happy?

“He believes his period here must be over so OK, both clubs arrived at an agreement and that’s all.”

Guardiola also gave Alvarez credit for his enormous impact in just two seasons.

“I want to say my gratitude for Julian, we won everything, his contribution has been massive,” he stated.

“The players really loved him for his behaviour, but if he wants to go, that’s fine. Atletico is a great club, so there’s a new challenge. We hope the best for him. He taught me a lot, and I hope he finds what he’s looking for.”