As Kyle Walker, John Stones and Phil Foden came in for more criticism with England, another Manchester City player elsewhere was praised.
The Three Lions drew 0-0 with Slovenia in their final group-stage match at Euro 2024.
It was another dismal display from Gareth Southgate’s side, who couldn’t break their opponents down and again lacked creativity and quality in the final third.
Foden didn’t do too badly, despite again being asked to play out on the left, although he did come inside more this time.
But it was still a performance that left a lot to be desired, which was the case for most of the other players.
But there was at least some praise for another Manchester City player last night, as Julian Alvarez featured for Argentina at the Copa America.
Man City star Julian Alvarez praised for doing one thing for Argentina against Chile
Alvarez is currently out in the United States on duty with Argentina for the 2024 Copa America.
Argentina got their tournament off to a solid start last Friday, as they beat Canada 2-0.
Last night, they followed that up with a 1-0 win over Chile, meaning they have now booked their place in the quarter-finals.
It was a dominant display from the reigning World champions, who had 22 shots at goal in the game. Alvarez test Claudio Bravo early on. The City striker also had a wild shot in the second-half
But despite their dominance, Argentina’s winning goal came as late as the 88th minute, with Inter striker Lautaro Martinez turning in from a corner after a scramble.
As per Sofascore, Alvarez played 73 minutes, and completed 17/17 (100%) passes and also won 5/5 duels he contested.
It was by no means a top-drawer display from Alvarez, but his efforts were appreciated by TyC Sports – one of the biggest publications in Argentina.
They were particularly impressed with the City star’s work-rate. They said of him: “It’s hard to understand how he can run so much. In addition to pressing and forcing the opponent’s error, he also has energy to offer in each offensive play. He lacked a clear chance.”
Alvarez work-rate never in doubt
So Alvarez came in for praise last night for his shift against Chile, and the comments from TyC Sports will come as no real surprise to City fans.
Alvarez has shown since his £14 million transfer to the club that he is always a willing runner, and a player who presses from the front.
For all his creativity, he is also very industrious. And City certainly need that in a striker, because it isn’t necessarily something Erling Haaland is about.
Alvarez has been linked with a move away from City this summer. Supposedly, he was not overly happy with the amount of game time he got in the second half of 2023/24. He is also understood to be keen for a warmer climate.
It would be a bit of shame if he did leave, after a solid first couple of seasons at the club.
We know that City are never ones to stand in the away of players who want to go though. But Pep Guardiola would surely be a little disappointed to see the back of the South American.