Julian Alvarez was given a rare start by Pep Guardiola in Manchester City’s 5-0 win over FC Copenhagen, playing a full 90 minutes at the Etihad Stadium and getting the scoresheet.
Vital Man City predicted the 22-year-old would start as City were big favourites to pick up all three points and could get a result without a full-strength team. Pep Guardiola clearly agreed as Alvarez was given his second start of the season after numerous substitute appearances.
The Argentine international could have bagged a brace against Copenhagen had he not hit the woodwork, but he’ll be happy with his performance.
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Alvarez created one chance, had one successful dribble, had two shots with 50% hitting the target, whipped in two crosses and turned over the ball once.
Simon Bajkowski of the Manchester Evening News gave the 22-year-old a player rating of 8/10, Mitch Wilks of 90min gave Alvarez a player rating of 6/10 and praised his second-half performance and BBC Sport viewers gave him a player rating of 7.3/10.
City welcome Southampton at the Etihad on Saturday afternoon, but it remains to be seen if Alvarez will keep his place in attack. Guardiola doesn’t often start with two attackers, so his team selection could vary drastically from the side he put out against Copenhagen.
In other news, Pep Guardiola will be delighted with Riyad Mahrez after Copenhagen win
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