Alvarez wanted ‘new challenge’ — Guardiola

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola says Julian Alvarez asked to leave the club because he wants a “new challenge”, amid interest from Atletico Madrid.

The Argentina forward, 24, is set to join Diego Simeone’s side in the coming days after City accepted an £81.5m offer.

Guardiola had been keen to keep Alvarez but the fee represents a sharp increase on the £17m that City paid River Plate for him in 2022.

The Spaniard is unsure whether City will replace Alvarez in the window but he says he leaves with the club’s best wishes.

“It was a joy to work with him. I learnt a lot from him and hopefully he can find what he was looking for.” Guardiola said.

Pressed on Alvarez’s reasons for leaving, Guardiola added: “He believes his period here must be over so, okay, both clubs arrive to an agreement.

“He’s incredibly loved by the team for his behaviour but like I said many times for many players, he wants to leave and have a new challenge.”

Guardiola, who confirmed Kyle Walker, John Stones, Phil Foden and Rodri will all miss the trip to Wembley following their participation in the Euro 2024 final, says there’s nothing the club can do about the fixture congestion.

“We try to give them the best rest possible, as much as possible. We would like to give them more time but it is what it is,” he said.

“Step by step, next game, try to be smart enough, train the right amount of time and be fresh in your mind. Rotate the players as much as possible, game by game and we will see what happen.”

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