He’s performing incredibly well” – Pep Guardiola says he’d ‘love’ to bring ex-Manchester City star back to the club

When Pep Guardiola speaks, the football world stops to listen. Known for his tactical brilliance and meticulous attention to detail, the Manchester City manager rarely shows public sentiment. Yet, in a recent press conference, Guardiola offered a rare glimpse of nostalgia, revealing that he would “love” to bring back former Manchester City star Julian Alvarez. The Argentine forward, now excelling at Atletico Madrid under Diego Simeone, has become one of Europe’s most dangerous attackers, and Guardiola’s admiration is evident.

Sitting calmly before reporters, Guardiola spoke with a mix of pride and longing. “Julian is performing incredibly well,” he said. “He’s at one of the best teams in the world, with a world-class coach and great teammates. I’d love to have him with me now… but I understand.” His words went beyond simple praise; they reflected a manager who deeply valued a player once central to his vision but who had to leave due to the crowded Manchester City attack.

Alvarez joined Manchester City from River Plate in 2022, arriving as a 22-year-old World Cup winner with Argentina. His ambition and hunger were evident from the start, and he quickly made an impact. In his first season, he achieved what few players ever do — he won the treble. However, the presence of Erling Haaland meant Alvarez often rotated, waiting for opportunities, and sometimes watching crucial matches from the bench. Ambitious and driven, he ultimately chose to move to Atletico Madrid to take on a more central role.

Guardiola, ever the understanding mentor, recognized Alvarez’s need for game time. “The treble year, do you remember the players I left on the bench?” he reminded reporters. “Aymeric Laporte, Julian Alvarez, and others I’d love to have now. But they wanted to play more and left.” There was no bitterness — only the reality of football’s demanding pace. Even in the most perfect systems, some of the most valuable parts must sometimes be released.

At Atletico Madrid, Alvarez has flourished. Under Simeone’s guidance, he has become the main man, the leader, and a constant attacking threat. In just over a season, he has matched his Manchester City goal tally of 36 goals while adding 11 assists. Beyond statistics, his presence is felt in every movement on the pitch. Defenders fear him, teammates rely on him, and Atletico fans chant his name with reverence.

Guardiola continues to monitor Alvarez’s progress closely. “He had to compete with Erling, which was extraordinary for us,” Pep explained. “But he wanted more minutes, more responsibility. And now, he’s performing incredibly well. I’d love to have him again.” The repetition of that phrase — “I’d love to have him” — reveals a coach who misses not just the talent, but the personality, work ethic, and passion Alvarez brought to the dressing room.

Alvarez has reciprocated the respect. In interviews, he has recalled his time at City fondly. “The last conversations I had with Pep were about thank you very much for everything you gave us in two years,” Alvarez said. “There were so many titles. You never caused any problems, you didn’t bring any trouble to the club. You always gave your all.” Their relationship, built on mutual admiration and professionalism, remains strong even after Alvarez’s departure.

Manchester City fans remember Alvarez with warmth. He played with honesty, hunger, and heart, never complaining about being second choice to Haaland. His departure was bittersweet, but his continued success in Spain makes it easier to admire his journey. Fans often speculate how Alvarez could have fit into Pep’s current system — perhaps alongside Haaland or in the creative role City sometimes lack when Kevin De Bruyne is unavailable.

At Atletico, Alvarez has evolved into more than just a goalscorer. Simeone’s system allows him to create, press, and link play, transforming him into the heartbeat of the team. With fellow Argentines like Nahuel Molina, Rodrigo De Paul, and Angel Correa, Alvarez has integrated seamlessly, earning the trust of both the manager and supporters. He has become a symbol of intensity and elegance, the kind of player who elevates those around him.

Meanwhile, Guardiola continues to rebuild his Manchester City squad. Every departure leaves a gap, every transfer alters the tapestry of his masterpiece. “They’re incredible players. I’d love to have them now,” Pep admitted, speaking of Alvarez and Laporte. “But football is like this. Players need to feel important, to play, to grow.” His words underline the truth that even in the strongest teams, ambition sometimes demands change.

At 25, Alvarez has already won almost every major trophy, including the World Cup, Copa America, and multiple club honors. Yet his hunger for growth continues. Guardiola’s admiration underscores the player’s exceptional qualities — intelligence, work ethic, and humility — traits that elevate him from good to great. His journey, from River Plate to Manchester City and now to Atletico Madrid, is a testament to ambition and determination.

The story of Pep and Alvarez transcends football. It is about mutual respect, professional admiration, and personal connection. Guardiola’s wish to have him back is not just about talent; it reflects the bond forged during shared victories, challenges, and lessons. While Alvarez continues to shine in Spain, their connection remains, a reminder that football is as much about people as it is about trophies.

Even as the Premier League moves forward and Manchester City chase new triumphs, Pep’s words echo with nostalgia: “He’s performing incredibly well… I’d love to have him with me.” It is a sentiment that captures the heart of football — that some players, once part of your journey, never truly leave. Alvarez may be in Madrid, but in Guardiola’s reflections, he remains an essential part of the story.