Julian Alvarez might not be getting regular games at Manchester City, and when he does he is often being used to accommodate rest time for Erling Haaland.
However, Alvarez has a philosophical outlook on his place in the squad, and has revealed the benefits of competing with a player like Haaland for minutes, rather than focussing on the challenges.
Alvarez started a rare game for City at Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday, starting in the number ten role behind Haaland before leading the line himself in the second half. Despite plenty of lung-bursting runs and closing down, Alvarez's chances were limited as both sides appeared happy to take a point that sealed first and second place in their Champions League groups.
ALSO READ: Alvarez may soon learn his place in City pecking order
Reflecting on the game, Alvarez admitted City were slightly disappointed not to win the game, but said he was pleased to get another start for the Blues.
“I'm very happy for having been involved in the game today. We are not pleased with the draw, but we are happy for having achieved the goal of finishing at the top of the group," he said.
"We have had a consistent group stage overall. It wasn't an easy game today, in a difficult stadium with a great atmosphere, but we managed to get a point and the top of the group secured."
And regarding his own position in the team, Alvarez accepted that he may not yet be ready to start ahead of Haaland, but said he is taking the time to watch his Norwegian teammate closely to learn anything he can to add to his own game - so when the time comes, he will be ready to contribute for Pep Guardiola's team.
He explained: "I always try to give my best. I always train hard to have more opportunities to play and try to contribute to any area the team needs me.
“Manchester City is one of the best clubs in the world. I came here because I want to keep learning and growing as a player. I have learned a lot since I arrived here. Training and playing with the best players in the world make you improve and become a better player. I'm going to always give my best to help the team.
“We all know the sort of player Erling Haaland is. He is very physical, he has amazing quality, with great movements, he is very quick inside the box and he is an outstanding goal scorer. He is a great player and a great person too.
"I have been looking at him a lot in training and I always try to learn from him. I keep learning things every day, not only from Erling but from the rest of my teammates.”
READ NEXT:
