Julian Alvarez: Man City's Sensational Rise Amidst Kevin De Bruyne's Absence

Julian Alvarez has been exceptionally efficient for Manchester City throughout this season. However, his performance in the Champions League victory against RB Leipzig was truly extraordinary, even by his own high standards.

In a span of just over 10 minutes as a substitute, the 23-year-old not only scored the decisive second goal but also provided the assist for City's third goal. With these contributions, his respective tallies for the season now stand at six goals and four assists.

He has been averaging a goal involvement every 70 minutes, showcasing his consistent performance. Last month, Pep Guardiola praised him as being "almost undroppable," and his recent run of eight consecutive starts in all competitions at the Red Bull Arena further demonstrated his significant impact. In a crucial moment, Alvarez turned the game around for City, saving them from a potential third consecutive defeat.

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Alvarez, who joined Man City from River Plate last year, is currently in his second season with the team. His recent match-winning performances have solidified his place in the starting line-up for the upcoming match against Arsenal on Sunday. Guardiola considers him one of the most crucial players at the moment.

One particular injury has presented an opportunity this time and his status has significantly improved. Alvarez played a crucial role in City's triumphant season, especially during the domestic run-in, contributing significantly to their treble-winning success. However, he started in only 13 Premier League matches and four in the Champions League overall.

Alvarez excelled last season primarily as a striker or right-sided forward. However, due to Kevin De Bruyne's hamstring injury, Alvarez has seamlessly transitioned into the role of Manchester City's No 10, where he continues to thrive.

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Alvarez has mainly played as a No 10 for Man City this season. He mentioned in August that he had also played in this position a few times last season. However, the statistics demonstrate how he has adjusted his style of play to consistently perform in that role.

The Argentine has emerged as City's primary source of creativity, significantly increasing his chance creation rate by approximately three times and doubling his expected assists per 90 minutes. This season, only four players - Kieran Trippier from Newcastle, Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United, James Maddison from Tottenham, and Dejan Kulusevski - have generated more chances.

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Alvarez's role transformation this season is evident from the statistics.

Alvarez frequently capitalizes on opportunities by swiftly receiving the ball and propelling it forward, as exemplified by his assist to Jeremy Doku in last month's match against West Ham.

His manager has taken note of it. Guardiola recently praised him, saying, "All his actions have been impressive and executed swiftly." Guardiola also acknowledged his progress in maneuvering within tight spaces, stating that "he is learning extensively." Furthermore, his ability to make penetrating passes has proven valuable for City in the absence of De Bruyne, displaying a remarkable range in his playmaking.

Alvarez's ability to perfectly execute through-balls, skillfully perform first-time flicks to exploit spaces behind the defense, and create opportunities for his teammates with well-timed lay-offs is remarkable. His creativity was exemplified in a brilliant scoop over the top, setting up Bernardo Silva's goal against West Ham.

What is even more noteworthy is Alvarez's proficiency in scoring goals himself, making him a formidable attacking force. Guardiola praises his effectiveness playing behind Erling, emphasizing their strong synergy on the field.

Alvarez and Haaland have collectively generated 10 opportunities for one another in the Premier League to date, making them the second-most prolific duo in this regard, trailing only Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby. Notably, when Alvarez isn't creating chances for Haaland, the Norwegian forward reciprocates, as evidenced by his two assists this season, both of which were provided to Alvarez during matches against Fulham and Red Star Belgrade.

Playing in a deeper role may result in the World Cup champion receiving fewer opportunities in the opposing team's penalty area. Nonetheless, this adjustment in his initial position adds a layer of difficulty for defenders attempting to mark his movements accurately.

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Alvarez is playing deeper having often featured as a striker last season

He showcased this in his performance against Red Star, where he skillfully passed the ball to Haaland around 40 yards away from the goal, swiftly made his way into the penalty area to receive the return pass, and successfully scored from a close range near the byline. Similarly, in his goal against Fulham, he once again cleverly moved past Haaland to deliver a precise cross and find the back of the net.

These advanced runs from a central position have significantly enhanced City's offensive capabilities. Guardiola praised his contributions by stating, "He provides us with numerous positive attributes."

With Riyad Mahrez and Ilkay Gundogan departed, and De Bruyne absent, Alvarez has taken on the role of leading their set-pieces. Last season, the Argentine did not even attempt a free-kick shot in the Premier League and only took four corners. However, this season, he has emerged as their main taker for both types of set-pieces. Alvarez has embraced this responsibility and has already managed to score directly from free-kicks against Wolves and Red Star Belgrade. Additionally, he came close to scoring from a free-kick against West Ham, hitting the post.

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Alvarez's ability to pose a threat from a distance contrasts with Haaland's focus on dominating the box. Haaland's prowess in the 18-yard area makes Alvarez's evolving proficiency from longer ranges an invaluable addition to City's gameplay.

De Bruyne's upcoming comeback from injury will undoubtedly provide a substantial uplift. Guardiola already has more choices at his disposal, with the return to fitness of Jack Grealish, Mateo Kovacic, and Bernardo Silva.

Yet, it is mainly due to one player's exceptional performance that they have successfully maneuvered through a potentially challenging phase. As City takes on the Emirates Stadium this Sunday, they will rely on Julian Alvarez to once again rise to the occasion.

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