
Álvarez is a champion’s talisman; prior to his Atlético transfer, he secured 17 trophies over seven years, such as the Champions League, Premier League, Club World Cup, World Cup, and Copa América, proving himself a genuine football champion. At Manchester City, Álvarez was an important rotational player. As a World Cup-winning main striker, the Little Spider naturally wanted a starting role, so in the 2024 summer transfer window, this Argentine forward moved to Atlético Madrid for €75 million. Although he remains highly efficient and valued among the “100-million-euro club,” facing Simeone’s rigid tactics has left him stuck, cutting him off from winning titles.
In the early hours of January 9th Beijing time, Atlético lost 1-2 to Real Madrid in the Supercopa semi-final, missing out on the final. Álvarez started and played the full match but did not contribute to any goals.
After Atlético’s exit from the Supercopa, Álvarez’s first title with the club still requires patience. This champion who collected trophies with River Plate, Manchester City, and Argentina has now parted ways with winning at Atlético. It must be said that choice outweighs effort; with Simeone’s outdated tactics, Atlético will struggle to claim any trophies amid the pressure from Barcelona and Real Madrid. Álvarez’s attacking talents will also fade under Simeone’s conservative and rigid style.
Since joining Atlético, Álvarez hasappeared 82 times, contributing 40 goals and 13 assists, yet still holds zero titles.The Supercopa is the first trophy Atlético has lost this season. Last season, they ended empty-handed in all four major competitions, and this season looks likely to follow the same path. Álvarez’s move from Manchester City to Atlético may be a lose-lose decision. Without the Little Spider’s long-range shots and free kicks, City struggles to break down tight defenses; Haaland has now gone four Premier League matches without a goal from open play. Without the Little Spider’s presence, Atlético’s hopes for club trophies have dimmed, while Manchester City’s three consecutive draws in the Premier League make them an earlier faltering contender than Arsenal.