Pep Guardiola appeared to give a frosty response when asked about Julian Alvarez’s decision to consider his future at Manchester City.
Alvarez is understood to be weighing up his options, with both Arsenal and Chelsea reportedly interested in signing the Argentine after turning down a new City contract.
The 2022 World Cup winner came seventh in the Ballon d’Or rankings in 2023 and is understood to want more game time, despite featuring in 54 domestic matches last season — including 36 of City’s 38 Premier League games.
Speaking during City’s pre-season tour of the United States, Guardiola said: “I read that he's going to think about it. OK, think about it. Then he will inform us what he wants to do.
“Julian played a lot. He wants more? It’s fine. So that's why [he wants to] think about it. And when he thinks about it, he will inform us.”
Alvarez, who won the Copa America with Argentina this summer, had spoken to DSports Radio about his City future. He is currently part of Argentina’s men’s Under-23 Olympics squad as one of their three allotted over-age players.
The 24-year-old said: “I haven't stopped to think about what I'm going to do. Last season I was one of the players who played the most minutes in the team.
“But it's true: in the end, in some important games, it's not pleasant to be left out. I will have time to consider my decision. I haven't stopped to think things through calmly. Once the Olympic Games are over, I will take the time to reflect on what I want for myself.
“Maybe it's annoying to be out in big games; players always want to help on the pitch.”
Having lost 4-3 to Celtic and 3-2 to AC Milan with experimental sides already on their US tour, City face Barcelona in Florida on Wednesday.
