Julian Alvarez sends 190-word message to Manchester City fans following club-record transfer exit | OneFootball

Former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez has issued a departing message to supporters and players after signing for Atletico Madrid.

The 24-year-old completed a club-record exit from the Etihad Stadium earlier this month, signing for Atletico Madrid in a transfer deal worth upwards of €95 million, ending a two-year stay with Manchester City.

Alvarez, who moved to Manchester City from River Plate for £14 million in 2022, made 103 appearances and scored 36 goals for Pep Guardiola’s side, winning six trophies.

The Argentina international was directly involved in 32 goals for the Sky Blues last season, helping Manchester City win the Premier League, FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup.

Alvarez also won the UEFA Champions League with Manchester City during his debut season in east Manchester, with the 24-year-old additionally winning both the FIFA World Cup and Copa America with Argentina.

Atletico Madrid could hand Alvarez his debut on Monday evening against Villarreal in La Liga, with the potential for Manchester City to face Diego Simeone’s side in the UEFA Champions League this season.

In a departing message to Manchester City supporters, Alvarez said: “Today I say goodbye to this amazing club, with a lot of emotion. These have been two very special years. During this time, I have grown and learnt a lot – both as a player and as a person.

“To the directors and the technical staff, thank you for your confidence and support. Your teachings and vision have helped me to develop so much.

“To my teammates, thank you for every moment we have shared, for the effort and dedication in every training session and every match. I have learnt a lot from each and every one of you and I remain with memories and friendships that will last forever.

“To the fans, thank you from the bottom of my heart for the great support and for making me feel at home from the very first day. I will always be extremely proud to have been part of this family.

“Manchester City will always have a special place in my heart. I wish you every success in the future and I will keep on supporting the club wherever I may be.”

Manchester City are expected to look to replace Alvarez during the closing weeks of the transfer window, with Guardiola’s side also targeting a new midfielder for the 2024/25 campaign.