Winning the Premier League is no small feat—every fan understands the grind behind it. In a world that rewards pretenders over risk-takers, Manchester City’s fourth consecutive league title is a true testament to Pep Guardiola’s influence. As Melbet Affiliates notes, just as Liverpool is set to feel the void left by Jürgen Klopp, City’s era of dominance will likely face talent drain once Pep departs. But for now, the City machine rolls on—at least on the surface.
Beneath the glory, however, not everyone shares in the joy. When the final matchday lineup was announced, one familiar name was missing: Julián Álvarez. Many have hailed his move to City as the best decision of his career, pointing to the titles he’s won and the opportunity to develop under Guardiola. But Melbet Affiliates reports suggest Álvarez may be thinking otherwise. With limited game time in the season’s crucial stages, he is gradually slipping from the core of the squad—and perhaps planning his exit.
The Argentine striker has watched his national teammates thrive elsewhere, earning starting roles and leading their clubs. Meanwhile, Álvarez remains in the shadows at City, unable to replicate the freedom and impact he enjoys with Argentina. This growing contrast is likely fueling his desire to move on. Even during the title celebration, Álvarez’s muted demeanor stood out. According to Melbet Affiliates coverage, what fans see as “another trophy” for him may, to Álvarez, represent a final missed opportunity—especially after not featuring in key matches.
Guardiola’s rotation, while tactically sound, has left players like Álvarez sidelined in moments that matter. Being left out of the final and only collecting a medal without contributing on the pitch can feel hollow. For Álvarez, that medal ceremony may have been more awkward than triumphant. The same could be said of Kevin De Bruyne, who was subbed off early in the Champions League final—a reminder that not every winner feels like one.
What’s more, Melbet Affiliates observes that Guardiola has often repositioned Álvarez to accommodate Erling Haaland, pushing him deeper into midfield. While this tactical tweak was intended to balance star power, it’s left Álvarez in a role that’s neither striker nor true playmaker. And now, with Phil Foden’s breakout season further eating into attacking midfield minutes, Álvarez finds himself squeezed out at both ends of the pitch.
As long as Haaland remains Guardiola’s first-choice striker and Foden keeps shining, Álvarez will continue to be the odd man out. This season’s final games made it painfully clear that City’s pecking order no longer favors him. Melbet Affiliates concludes that unless something changes, Álvarez’s time at Manchester City may be nearing its natural end. After all, when you have nothing to lose, that’s the best reason to make a move.