Julián Alvarez arrived at Atletico Madrid from Manchester City as the club’s second-most expensive signing, and so far, he has lived up to expectations. In a stellar debut season, the Argentine striker has equaled a remarkable milestone set by Luis Suarez during Atletico’s last title-winning campaign.
Having already demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess at Manchester City and with the Argentina national team, Alvarez was eager to thrive in a starting role after spending much of his time in Erling Haaland’s shadow. Now at Atletico, he has made an immediate impact.
With his goal on Saturday against Athletic Bilbao, Alvarez reached 21 goals for Atletico Madrid—the same tally Suarez recorded in the 2020-21 season, when the club last won La Liga. These are impressive numbers, especially with a significant portion of the season still ahead, and Atletico competing on three fronts: La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey.
Although Alvarez has played more games than Suarez during that season—40 matches to 38—he has been more efficient in front of goal. Alvarez has scored 21 goals and contributed 5 assists in 2,593 minutes, while Suarez netted 21 goals and provided 3 assists in 2,983 minutes, nearly 5 extra games.
One key similarity is that both players reached their 21-goal milestone in their debut season with Atletico Madrid, which ended with a La Liga title. Now, in the 2024-25 season, Atletico remain in the title race with Barcelona and Real Madrid, with hopes of repeating the success of Suarez’s season.
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Simeone’s praise for Alvarez: Comparing him to Suarez
Among those most impressed by Alvarez’s performances is Atletico head coach Diego Simeone. Following the team’s 1-0 victory at the weekend, the Argentine manager drew comparisons between Alvarez and Suarez, underscoring the striker’s significance to the squad.
“When we found out that Julian Alvarez’s arrival was confirmed, we were very happy because we had a different player, like Luis Suarez was at the time,” said Simeone. “They are special players, they have a gift, something different. It’s like when (David) Villa arrived.”
“They are game-changers. I’m happy with his humility, his way of working, his manner of being among the starting players, playing on the left, waiting on the bench to come in,” the Argentine manager concluded, offering high praise for his star striker.
