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Julian Alvarez gave a clear answer to a journalist indicating that Lionel Messi was incapable of winning the World Cup, but only did so with him in the team. The Argentine left Manchester City to join LaLiga giants Atletico Madrid last week.
A journalist asked Alvarez to comment on his role in the national team and at the club level, highlighting that he helped Lionel Messi win the World Cup and Pep Guardiola to win the UEFA Champions League with Manchester City.
"A few years ago, it seemed like Messi was incapable of winning a World Cup, but with you, he did.
"It seemed impossible for Guardiola to win a Champions League with City, but with you, he achieved it. Now you arrive at Atlético Madrid with the challenge of the Champions League," the journalist said. (via All About Argentina on X)
The Argentine forward responded humbly, denying the journalist's claim that Messi was uncapable of winning the World Cup without him.
"One always dreams of winning, loves to win and compete. I don’t feel like a superhero for winning the World Cup. I don’t think it's true about Messi that he seemed incapable of winning it. I’m here to contribute, help the team and fight for all competitions." Alvarez said.
Julian Alvarez was one of the best players in Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar. The former City star scored four goals and gave one assist in seven appearances, including two goals in the semi-final against Croatia.
Shortly after returning from his World Cup victory, Alvarez contributed to Manchester City winning the treble in the 2022-23 season. The Argentine was not a starter in most of the games, as Guardiola preferred Erling Haaland.
Nevertheless, Alvarez contributed 17 goals and five assists for City in 49 appearances across competitions during their historic campaign.
Lionel Messi reportedly congratulated Julian Alvarez after he joined Atletico Madrid this season
According to Diario Ole, Lionel Messi reportedly called Julian Alvarez to congratulate him after he completed his transfer to Atletico Madrid from Manchester City. La Pulga reportedly told the youngster that the transfer would be beneficial for his career.
During his time playing for Barcelona, the Argentine legend faced Atletico Madrid 43 times. Argentine forward Alvarez left the Etihad to Atletico for a reported fee of €75 million. The striker is expected to be key to Diego Simeone's side this season, especially after the departure of Alvaro Morata.
Julian Alvarez had previously expressed his desire to take up a new challenge in his career and reportedly wanted to leave City due to the lack of game time. Given City's stacked-up attacking line-up, he struggled to be a starter for Guardiola in crucial matches.
