Argentina striker Julian Alvarez proved in his masterclass against Croatia why Man City have signed an absolute bargain.
Signed for just £14.1 million, as reported by HITC SPORT (via BBC Sport) in January, the 22-year-old made the headlines as Lionel Messi and Co. reached the World Cup final.
What was so special about the Julian Alvarez show against Croatia?
In a contest where Argentina were struggling to get hold of the game against Croatia, Julian Alvarez turned the game on its head by winning a penalty by driving into the box.
Lionel Messi proceeded to do what he does best and converted his spot-kick.
In the 39th minute, Alvarez produced one of the moments of the World Cup.
Getting on the ball in the middle of the park, the youngster went on a brilliant solo run, helped by a deflection before slotting the ball into the back of the net.
And to cap off a sensational outing, the former River Plate finished coolly at the near-post by getting on the end of a sublime Lionel Messi assist.
Off the ball as well, the Argentine international’s pressing was nothing short of incredible.
The wonderkid is the perfect Haaland plan B
While Erling Haaland is an absolute physical specimen, Julian Alvarez profiles as much more of a mobile striker.
As exemplified by his superb performance against Croatia, Alvarez is comfortable in possession and is more than capable of weaving magic without needing much service.
Similar to the likes of Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez, the fellow Argentine is much more than just a No.9.
The fact that Man City have such a different profile in Julian Alvarez at their disposal, apart from Erling Haaland just proves why not many clubs rival them from a recruitment perspective.
And to do so at such a reasonable price is even more impressive.
