Julián Alvarez surprised the soccer world last summer when he made the decision to leave Manchester City to try his luck elsewhere. The world champion aimed to prove he was ready to be the star at another European club, and he has succeeded. At this point, he is the top scorer for the "colchonero" squad after reaching 22 goals with his latest stunning goal against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
It's no small feat, as he could become the best signing for the "rojiblanco" team since Simeone took over the bench in 2011. Behind the Argentine is Antoine Griezmann, who has been alternating great performances with more irregular matches. The Frenchman is the club's all-time top scorer and, for now, still keeps the mystery about whether he will continue next year.
Julián Alvarez Aims to Be the Best
There are still many matches ahead, but the world champion is determined to make a historic season with Atlético de Madrid. So far, he has scored 22 goals this season, being very close to becoming the best-performing signing since Simeone became coach. Currently, the one holding that position is Antoine Griezmann, who scored 25 goals in his debut in the 2014-15 season.
There are only three goals difference between both forwards, and everything points to the Argentine international potentially reaching the staggering figure of 30 goals. He has also surpassed Luis Suárez, Mario Mandzukic, and Kevin Gameiro, all strikers who have been under Simeone's command. The coming weeks will be crucial for the "colchonero" team, as they are fighting to stay in contention for all titles with three challenging matches at their own stadium.
Simeone Appeals to the Strength of the Metropolitano
Specifically, the "rojiblancos" will have three decisive commitments in their fortress to achieve silverware at the end of the current season. The first of these will be next Wednesday against Real Madrid with the goal of overturning the adverse result from the Santiago Bernabéu. That same week, FC Barcelona will visit the Metropolitano in a LaLiga match that could define the aspirations of both teams.
Finally, in April, the blue and garnet team will return to the Spanish capital to decide the finalist of the Copa del Rey after the draw at Montjuïc. Whether Atlético de Madrid can lift a trophy this season seems to depend on these three commitments against tough opponents. Even so, the most immediate challenge is the visit to Getafe led by José Bordalás this Sunday to stay at the top of the standings.