Julián Alvarez grew up in Calchín, a small town in Córdoba province, and came through River Plate’s academy. In 2021/22 he scored prolifically for River, and Manchester City signed him in 2022.
His first season in England was extraordinary. He won the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League with City, and he had already won the World Cup with Argentina in December 2022, scoring four goals in Qatar. He later added the 2024 Copa América.
Atlético Madrid signed him in 2024 in a deal worth up to €95 million. Alvarez is a relentless presser and a clever, two-footed finisher who can play as a centre-forward or drop deeper.
Playing style
Alvarez is a relentless, intelligent forward. He presses constantly, making him one of the hardest-working strikers in world football. His movement is sharp, he finishes well with both feet and he is a good passer who links play with team-mates. He can play as a centre-forward, second striker or wide forward. At Manchester City he played a supporting role behind Erling Haaland but still won major trophies. At Atlético he has become the main attacking focus.
International career
Alvarez made his Argentina debut in 2021 and was one of the stars of the 2022 World Cup, scoring four goals, including two in the semi-final against Croatia. He won the 2024 Copa América and has been a regular in Argentina’s attack.
Career in numbers
Alvarez’s senior club career, which began in 2018/19, has so far brought 335 appearances and 143 goals for 3 clubs. The 2024/25 season, with 29 goals from 57 matches for Atlético Madrid, remains his highest tally. So far in 2026/27 he has made 4 appearances for Atlético Madrid. The full season-by-season record is in the Stats section of this profile.
