WATCH: Julian Alvarez recalls starstruck moment during his first interaction with ‘idol’ Lionel Messi

Julian Alvarez hopes that the Argentinean skipper, Lionel Messi will continue until the 2026 World Cup.

WATCH: Julian Alvarez recalls starstruck moment during his first interaction with ‘idol’ Lionel Messi

Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi (left); an old picture of Alvarez with Messi (right) (via Sky Sports and X)

Manchester City star Julian Alvarez, in a recent interview, recalled his first interaction with his ‘idol’ and Argentinean skipper, Lionel Messi. He also discussed his experiences of playing alongside the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The 24-year-old forward, who is one of the world’s most talented players, enjoyed a wonderful 2022-23 season, winning all the major trophies, including the Premier League, the UCL and the FIFA World Cup. Establishing a strong partnership with Argentine captain Lionel Messi, he emerged as the second-highest scorer for the national side during their World Cup triumph. Both the players combined well in the club’s 3-0 semi-final win over Croatia.

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Julian Alvarez, in a recent interview with Goal, shared details about his first encounter with the former Barcelona icon. The young forward recounted that he first met Messi during a training session with the Under-23 Argentina side, where he asked the icon for a photograph. Alvarez later spoke about a completely different experience, in forming a cherished partnership with Messi that led Argentina to a World Cup victory in Qatar.

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When I was growing up he was my idol and I remember in the training sessions, with the senior team, I asked him for a photo. When I went to the senior team I got another point of view. It’s something crazy but also really nice and I try to enjoy every moment playing with him. I’m very proud of everything we’ve achieved with the national team in this time.

The Man City star still recognizes Messi as his ‘idol’, characterizing their experiences as both ‘crazy’ and ‘enjoyable’. He also hopes Messi continues in the national side until the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Julian Alvarez shares his thoughts on Manchester City teammate Erling Haaland

Manchester City star and 2022 World Cup winner Julian Alvarez opened up about his relationship with fellow City teammate Erling Haaland, amid the Norwegian’s return from injury against Burnley. Since Haaland’s absence, Alvarez has stepped up, scoring five goals in nine matches for the team.

Julian Alvarez and Erling Haaland
Julian Alvarez and Erling Haaland have formed a formidable partnership at Manchester City. (via LiveScore)

The 24-year-old Argentinean is City’s second-highest scorer, with 13 goals, and has started in almost all of the club’s matches this season. He has formed a brilliant partnership with Haaland, playing in the attacking midfield position, just behind him.

Alvarez acknowledged the influence of playing alongside top-level players, claiming Haaland to be one of them. Furthermore, he emphasized that they have contributed significantly to the team’s success together, evident in their collective on-field performance, with a combined total of 32 goals.

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