A new place can change everything—just ask Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward made a bold choice that changed the course of his season, and perhaps, his career.
At Manchester City, Álvarez wasn’t underperforming. But with Erling Haaland ahead of him, chances were limited. Despite his talent, minutes were scarce. That’s when he made the tough call—leaving the glamour of City to stay sharp for Argentina.
His destination? Atlético Madrid.
Moving to Diego Simeone’s system wasn’t easy at first. The intensity, the demands—it took some getting used to. But Álvarez adapted quickly. Before long, he wasn’t just fitting in—he was leading the line.
Now, as the 2024/25 season comes to a close, Álvarez can reflect on a remarkable year. It wasn’t just about adjusting. It was about thriving. His consistent brilliance earned him Player of the Month awards in October, November, February, March and April—and finally, the biggest prize of all: Atlético Madrid Player of the Season
He scored 29 goals and made 7 assists in all competitions. Seven of those goals came in the UEFA Champions League—a stage where he truly announced himself. From being a pricey signing under pressure to becoming Atlético’s standout player, the transformation has been striking.
Atleti had ups and downs this season. But Álvarez’s performances were a constant. He became the face of the team, a driving force in the final third, and a fan favourite.
What started as a gamble ended in success. For Álvarez, the move wasn’t just a transfer—it was a statement. A reminder that sometimes, stepping out of the shadows can take you into the spotlight.