Manchester City could decide to loan Julian Alvarez out again in the summer, once the £17million signing finally arrives from River Plate.
Pep Guardiola stated on Friday that the Argentine forward, 22, is good enough for the Premier League leaders now but the incredible depth he has at his disposal made staying in South America his best option.
Once Alvarez, who for now has been loaned back to River Plate, arrives in the summer, the City boss will make a decision on whether to promote him to the first-team.
Guardiola said: “He is a player that could be with us now but we have enough players in that position and I don't like to have many in several positions.
“The best [choice] is to stay at River Plate. He has developed incredibly well in recent years with Marcelo Gallardo. Next pre-season he will be with us and afterwards we will decide what happens.
“In pre-season, every season the squad moves. I am personally and we are really pleased to have this talented young player for the next years.”
City take on Championship leaders Fulham in the FA Cup on Saturday, which could see Guardiola give a runout to some of his young stars.
On the club planning for the future, he noted: “[It’s] so important. We are a young team except Fernandinho and [Scott] Carson.
“The average age is so good, the club has to work to keep these players. They behave very well, they all love to play football, and are incredibly focused.
“We have to keep them and the club has to win the Premier League. The pandemic is difficult for everyone, I don't know what is going to happen but the soul and heart of the team is young.”
