Lionel Messi has admitted that he is surprised by the impact teammate and Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez has had on Argentina's run to the World Cup final in Qatar.
Alvarez, who joined officially joined City from River Plate during the summer, scored twice in Tuesday night's 3-0 semi-final win over Croatia to fire Argentina to their second World Cup final in the last three tournaments. His brace took his tally of goals in Qatar to four, meaning he will head into Sunday's final against current holders France just one goal shy of leading Golden Boot contenders Kylian Mbappe and Messi, both of whom are currently on five each.
Alvarez, who also scored in the victories over Poland and Australia, has been something of an unexpected star for the two-time World Cup winners in Qatar. He was expected to play second fiddle to Lautaro Martinez in the battle to lead the line and the Inter Milan star started the opening two games of the tournament, including the shock 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia but failed to leave his calling card, opening the door for Alvarez.
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The 22-year-old, who has scored seven goals for City this season, has since repaid the faith Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni has shown in him, becoming key in the South American giants' run to the final. And it his link-up play with Messi, who has admitted that he is surprised by Alvarez's impact, that has been key to their success in Qatar so far.
"Nobody imagined Julian would have the participation and importance he has shown," said Messi. "The help he has given us has been absolutely spectacular."
Alvarez, who will be back in competition with Erling Haaland for a starting berth at City following the conclusion of the World Cup, was instrumental in the win over Croatia. As well as scoring twice, he also won Argentina's first-half penalty that allowed Messi to open the scoring and calm any nerves.
Messi continued: "During the whole World Cup, but also on Tuesday, he was extraordinary. He ran everything.
"He fought for everything - creating chances, fighting. For us, he was the surprising discovery, and he deserves everything that has happened to him because he is a lovely guy."
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