Manchester City have confirmed the departure of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid in a record-breaking transfer worth €95 million.
Atletico Madrid Signs Julian Alvarez in Club-Record Deal from Manchester City
The Argentine forward, who played a pivotal role in City’s recent domestic and international successes, leaves the Premier League champions after two seasons, making this deal the most lucrative player sale in the club’s history.
Alvarez, 24, joined City from River Plate in January 2022 for £14 million, and quickly adapted to life in the Premier League, becoming a valuable asset under Pep Guardiola.
During his time at the Etihad, he made 103 appearances, scoring 36 goals. His contributions helped City secure multiple titles, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
The transfer sees Atletico Madrid pay an initial £64.4 million, with an additional £17.1 million potentially due through various performance-related bonuses. This deal marks Atletico’s second-most expensive signing, trailing only the 2019 transfer of Joao Felix.
Alvarez’s move to Spain signals a significant statement of intent from Diego Simeone’s side, who are looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new La Liga season.
Alvarez’s departure leaves a noticeable gap in City’s squad. Last season, he primarily served as backup to Erling Haaland, but his versatility and knack for crucial goals made him a fan favorite.
Despite limited starting opportunities, he managed to net 19 goals during City’s historic campaign, where they secured the league title for a fourth consecutive season.
Manchester City, however, appear confident in their squad depth. Guardiola hinted at the club’s internal solutions, mentioning the promising talents of Oscar Bobb and James McAtee, as well as the newly signed Brazilian midfielder Savinho.
BREAKING: Atletico Madrid sign Julian Alvarez for £82m from Manchester City 🚨 pic.twitter.com/fBvu3bDi24
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) August 12, 2024
The club’s management seems to be leaning towards giving these rising stars more opportunities rather than rushing into the transfer market for a direct replacement for Alvarez.
In his farewell statement, Alvarez expressed deep gratitude towards the club and its supporters.
“City will always have a special place in my heart,” he said.
“The last two years have been incredible, and I’ve grown immensely as both a player and a person. It’s emotional to say goodbye, but I’m excited for the next chapter of my career with Atletico.”
Atletico Madrid, on their part, have confirmed that Alvarez has penned a six-year deal. The Argentine striker joins a squad that has already been reinforced with the signings of Norwegian forward Alexander Sorløth and Spanish center-back Robin Le Normand.
With this high-profile addition, Atletico hopes to challenge the duopoly of Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga, as well as make a deeper run in the Champions League.
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