Julian Alvarez says he left Manchester Metropolis for Atletico Madrid as a result of he wanted a brand new problem in his profession.

The Argentine was anticipated to construct on his spectacular first two seasons at Metropolis, the place he was a key contributor regardless of having to compete with Erling Haaland for a spot up entrance.

Alvarez scored 11 targets and contributed 9 assists in 36 Premier League video games final season, additionally taking part in a key position within the Champions League by netting 5 instances in seven outings, and he clocked up nearly 3,500 minutes of motion throughout all competitions.

However after profitable the Premier League in each of his seasons at Metropolis, in addition to the treble in his first yr, Alvarez opted to take up Atletico Madrid’s provide of a €95m (£82m) switch to the Spanish capital – one which delivered Metropolis a major revenue on the price paid to former membership River Plate.

“I felt that I wanted a change in my profession,” Alvarez mentioned at his official unveiling. “I wanted to search for a brand new problem and I consider that this membership provides me the instruments to offer my finest.

“I discovered so much there [at City] and I am grateful for the 2 years I have been there.”

Increasing on why he took up Atletico’s provide, the Argentine continued: “I’ve come right here to assist the crew and to combat for each title.

“I spoke to [Diego] Simeone and he mentioned he wished me to return right here. He mentioned that I used to be going to assist the crew and they’d improve my strengths and assist me enhance on my weaknesses. My intention is to indicate my finest type, assist the crew win and take Atletico to the very best degree.”

Alvarez additionally spoke extremely of not solely Simeone however Pep Guardiola as nicely, hailing the duo as two of the easiest within the enterprise.

“They [Guardiola and Simeone] are among the many finest coaches on this planet,” Alvarez remarked. “I do not really feel a superhero for profitable the World Cup. I nonetheless have so much to study and enhance.

“I’m very pleased to be working with Simeone for what he means to this membership and for world soccer.”

Alvarez is certainly one of three gamers Atletico have spent huge cash on this summer time – Robin Le Normand and Alexander Sorloth have arrived from Actual Sociedad and Villarreal respectively – and the price concerned in his transfer has scuppered Conor Gallagher’s arrival on the membership.

Atleti had hoped to fund Gallagher’s swap by promoting Samu Omorodion to Chelsea, however the breakdown of that transfer has seen the English midfielder left in limbo. He may but be a part of, with a possible return to Stamford Bridge within the offing for former loanee Joao Felix.

As for Metropolis, they could have to dip into the switch market after dropping not solely Alvarez, but additionally promising academy graduate Oscar Bobb to long-term harm.

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