Rodri Backs Barcelona Move for Atlético Madrid Star Julián Alvarez

Rodri has backed Barcelona to pursue a future move for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Alvarez, describing his former Manchester City team-mate as a player he would sign for the Catalan club “without hesitation”.

Key takeaways

• Rodri spent two successful seasons alongside Alvarez in the Premier League before moving from Manchester to Catalonia.
• The Spain midfielder believes Alvarez has the quality to make a major impact at Camp Nou.
• Alvarez was linked with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Arsenal during the summer transfer window.
• Atlético were unwilling to sell the Argentina international to domestic rivals, while the player was not keen on a Premier League return.
• The 26-year-old has played twice in La Liga this season as Diego Simeone’s side target a title challenge.

Rodri highlights Alvarez’s versatility

Barcelona are continually assessing options to strengthen their attack, and Rodri’s assessment of Alvarez will add further attention to the forward’s longer-term situation at Atlético.

“Would I sign him here? Of course,” Rodri said. “He is a sensational player. I would bring him here without thinking twice. I played with him for two years and he is an incredible player, truly incredible.”

Alvarez established himself as a central striker but has developed into a notably flexible attacking option. Rodri pointed to the Argentine’s ability to operate behind the front line as well as in deeper creative roles, rather than being limited to a conventional number nine position.

“He has played almost more as a number 10 than a number 9, despite starting as a number 9,” Rodri added. “He has adapted as an attacking midfielder, a playmaker and even played games in central midfield. He is a spectacular player.”

For the time being, Alvarez’s focus remains on Atlético, where Simeone will rely on his goals and adaptability during the campaign. His summer links with Barcelona and Real Madrid did not lead to a move, with Atlético reluctant to strengthen either of their Spanish competitors. Arsenal were also mentioned as a possible destination, but Alvarez did not want to go back to England.

Rodri’s public endorsement nonetheless underlines Alvarez’s standing among leading players in Europe. Should Barcelona seek an elite, multi-role forward in a future window, the Atlético attacker is likely to remain a prominent name in the market conversation.