Man City striker Julian Alvarez admits he is ‘surprised’ by how much Pep Guardiola rotates the team

Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez has admitted he was ‘surprised’ by how much his manager Pep Guardiola rotates his team when he first arrived at the club.

The Argentine forward joined City last year and has impressed at the Etihad in his first full season – netting nine times in all competitions and taking his chance despite Erling Haaland being first choice. 

But Alvarez has quickly noticed Guardiola’s tendency to chop and change his starting XI, saying it took him by surprise because he ‘almost never picks the same line-up’. 

However, he says there are benefits to the rotation policy as it ensures that players are kept on their toes. 

‘Before I came here, I knew the way Pep works, but even I was surprised at how much rotation there is,’ he told GQ Magazine.

The Argentinian striker says the Spaniard’s policy ensures players are kept on their toes 

‘Pep almost never picks the same 11 in consecutive games – you make sure you’re always alert and at 100 per cent so that when your time comes, you know you’re ready to perform, and you’re at the disposal of the manager.’

Guardiola’s rotation policy has been criticised in the past after making big changes for major games – including in the 2021 Champions League final against Chelsea, when he opted not to play a recognised defensive midfielder, with Fernandinho left on the bench. 

He famously set up his Bayern Munich side to attack Real Madrid in the 2014 Champions League semi-final second leg before being hammered 4-0.

And City fans will remember how in 2020 he opted to play a 3-5-2 formation against Lyon in a Champions League quarter-final before his side were beaten 3-1.

Guardiola is infamous for chopping and changing and has been regularly criticised for it 

Alvarez – who was victorious at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with Argentina insists he has quickly focused his attentions back to Man City as they look to put pressure on Arsenal and close the gap at the top of the Premier League. 

The Gunners are currently five points clear of them with a game in hand.  

 ‘After the World Cup, I had a few days to celebrate and spend time with my family and friends,’ he added.

‘As soon as it was time to come back to the club, I changed my focus.

‘In terms of what I want to achieve this season, I want to be at 100 per cent and play as many games as possible, helping in any way I can.

‘Collectively, we want to win every competition that we’re in.’