“I'm still settling in” - Julian Alvarez opens up on wait for first Atletico Madrid goal and slow start to life in Spain
When Julian Alvarez signed for Atletico Madrid, there were high expectations for him to deliver, especially given the reported €95 million transfer fee. However, Alvarez has struggled to adapt to life in Madrid so far and explained that he is still adjusting to his new surroundings.
The Argentine international scored his first goal of the season for his country with a stunning strike from his weaker foot against Chile. However, his club form has made headlines, as he is yet to score in his first four games.
Addressing his early struggles, the 24-year-old stated that he is still settling to life in Madrid and believes that his best performances are yet to come.
I’m trying to adapt as quickly as possible. They are treating me very well in Madrid, my teammates, the coaching staff, everyone... They give me all the tools to make me feel comfortable. I’m still settling in," Alvarez said (via Mundo Deportivo)
Alvarez has long been regarded as a major talent since his days at River Plate, for whom he scored 54 goals and provided 26 assists in just 122 games. Manchester City signed him in 2022 for a reported fee of £14 million, and he continued to excel under Pep Guardiola.
During his two seasons at City, Alvarez made 103 appearances, scoring 36 goals and providing 17 assists, while also winning six trophies.
Given the possibility that he could remain a backup to Erling Haaland, the Argentine made a high-profile move to Atletico Madrid, but has since failed to replicate the form he displayed for both Argentina and Manchester City.
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simone backs Julian Alvarez to find form
Alvarez was named on the bench for Atletico Madrid’s first game against Villarreal, but has started all three matches since. However, Simeone has substituted him in the second half in all those games, as Alvarez has struggled in front of goal.
Despite the criticism of his performances, Simeone continued to support his number nine, expressing confidence that he will eventually find his form. He also noted that Alvarez plays differently from Antoine Griezmann and believes that scoring his first goal will help relieve the pressure on the Argentine.
“Calm. Julian is extraordinary, he will help us a lot. We have to accompany him so that things go naturally as they should. Griezmann also took a few months. Julian is not Antoine, but soon we will find what he wants and we all want, which is a goal from him," Simeone said (via Football Espana)
Alvarez, who was on the scoresheet for Argentina against Chile, will face Colombia on September 10 before returning to the Atletico Madrid camp, where they are scheduled to play Valencia on Sunday, September 15.