With 27 chances created in all competitions so far, not only does Álvarez lead the way for Manchester City in that department, but all Premier League players too. In fact, only Freiburg’s Vincenzo Grifo (28) has created more chances than Álvarez in all competitions of every team in Europe’s top five leagues.
On the ball, Álvarez has been a dual threat so far this season, able to create chances for teammates or be on the receiving end of them himself. He’s been involved in 44 open-play shot-ending sequences for City, a total that only Rodri can surpass. Álvarez’s split between shooting, creating a chance or being involved in the build up is very nicely balanced – although it’s not quite as neat as Phil Foden’s perfect split!
His work out of possession is incredible. He is City’s most active presser, making 24.4 pressures per 90 minutes, the most of any of his teammates. Such is his work rate that he leads the team for pressures in the attacking third per 90 (11.7) and also the middle third (9.8).
I think it has gone under the radar he hasn’t had time off since he left River Plate he came straight to Man City to play for us without a holiday. Fast forward this summer the window off was shorter and has played almost every minute.
This is his season and has taken the chance to grow into his new role. Alvarez is thriving but we need to go easy on him at same time.