Julian Alvarez might trigger a fresh round of strategic contemplation for Pep Guardiola at Fulham for Manchester City.

Julian Alvarez’s impact on Manchester City’s recent match against Fulham has sparked fresh contemplation for Pep Guardiola. The Argentine striker not only netted a spectacular goal but also played a pivotal role in the team’s overall performance.

Although Erling Haaland achieved a milestone by scoring his 50th goal of the season against Fulham in the previous season, Guardiola’s focus shifted towards Alvarez. Despite a somewhat challenging 2-1 victory, Alvarez’s contributions were notable. He earned an early penalty that Haaland converted and later scored a remarkable goal, reasserting City’s lead in a match that had started to become frustrating.

Guardiola praised Alvarez not just for his goals but also for his intensity, ball retention skills, vision, and overall gameplay. This acknowledgment led Guardiola to consider integrating Alvarez more consistently into the team, even when key players like Kevin De Bruyne returned from injury.

Although Alvarez faced a dip in form and playing time due to the return of De Bruyne and the emergence of Phil Foden, his recent performances have showcased his value. Despite spending considerable time on the bench, Alvarez has managed to score his 10th league goal of the season and 18th in all competitions. With four games remaining, reaching the 20-goal mark is plausible.

Alvarez’s ability to make an impact, even as a substitute, has earned Guardiola’s trust, hinting at increased game time in the final weeks. While competition within the squad remains intense, Alvarez’s perseverance and skill could prove crucial in City’s upcoming matches.