Julian Alvarez completes Atletico Madrid transfer as Man City bank nearly six times what they paid


Julian Alvarez has completed his £81 million transfer to Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine international leaves Man City to sign a five-year contract with the La Liga giants.

Alvarez won the Copa America this summer – but will not play for a new team

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Alvarez won the Copa America this summer – but will not play for a new team.

Alvarez joined City in 2022 for just £14 million – and will earn around six times what they paid.

“Today I say goodbye to this great club with a lot of emotion. These were two very special years,” he said in a detailed farewell message on the club’s website.

“During this time I have grown and learned a lot – both as a player and as a person.

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“I would like to thank the directors and technical staff for their trust and support. Your teachings and your vision have helped me a lot to develop further.

“To my teammates: Thank you for every moment we spent together, for the effort and dedication in every training session and every game. I learned a lot from each and every one of you and I have memories and friendships that will last forever.”

“To the fans: I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your amazing support and for making me feel at home from day one. I will always be incredibly proud to have been part of this family.”

“Manchester City will always have a special place in my heart. I wish them every success in the future and will continue to support the club wherever I am.”

The 24-year-old helped City to a treble in his first season at the club and another Premier League title last season.

He is also a world champion and two-time Copa America winner with Argentina.

Alvarez was keen to leave the Etihad on his way to the first team.

Alvarez joined City in 2022 for less than £20 million and became an international star

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Alvarez joined City in 2022 for less than £20 million and became an international star.
Julian Alvarez has an extremely impressive trophy collection after two and a half years at City

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Julian Alvarez has an extremely impressive trophy collection after two and a half years at City.

He said: “I haven’t thought about what I’m going to do.

“Last season I was one of the players with the most playing time on the team.

“But it’s true that in the end it’s not pleasant to be left out of some important games. I’ll have time to think about my decision.

“I haven’t stopped to think about everything yet. When the Olympics are over, I will take the time to think about what I want for myself.”

“Maybe it’s annoying to be out during important games; the players always want to help on the pitch.”

Since joining City, Alvarez has scored 36 goals and provided 18 assists in 103 appearances.