Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero believes that Julian Alvarez still needs time to settle in European football but that he is showing all the signs of being successful at the Etihad Stadium.
The 2022/23 campaign has been Alvarez's first in Europe having officially moved to Manchester in the summer from River Plate. While Erling Haaland's exploits have earned a lot of plaudits, the 23-year-old has impressed when given the opportunity.
So far, Alvarez has managed 12 goals in 34 appearances for the Blues including a brace last Saturday as City beat Burnley 6-0 in the FA Cup quarter-finals. His hard work since arriving at the club was rewarded earlier this month when the forward was handed a bumper new deal with the Blues.
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Discussing his fellow countryman's time at the Etihad so far, Aguero told City's official website about how pleased he has been with the forward. He explained: "I think he’s developing very well. He arrived in the team only very recently, and it’s his first experience in Europe.
"It’s only been a short time, but he’s proven he can play at the highest level – in the Premier League, the Champions League, and the World Cup as well. I’d highlight his humility, his will to learn, and how he implements those learnings in his life for the things he has done really well since arriving.
"It’s not easy to arrive from South America and adapt quickly to the demands of a team as monumental as City. He’s made good progress so far because he found a way to integrate to the club’s well-structured playing style.
"Julian never lets up - he’s running, pressuring, jumping into action wherever the team needs him to be. And he’s ruthless in front of the opposition’s goal.
"He’s committed, dedicated to training, and he’s able to translate that to great performances on the pitch. He still needs to gain more experience, but as I’ve said, this is his first season in Europe.
"He’s got new team-mates, a different style of play, new stadiums, and opponents to get used to. It’s hard to deny he’s already shown he has the personality to deal with this pressure because I’ve seen players who couldn’t deal with that.
"Even more so when you have a team with major figures, and you have to fight to be part of the main squad. As time goes on, I believe we’ll see these talents flourish and he’ll be able to give Manchester City’s supporters many happy memories."
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