Julian Alvarez gets Lionel Messi seal of approval as Man City learn more about summer signing

There was nothing particularly outstanding about Julian Alvarez's goal for Argentina this week, although that is exactly why Manchester City will have been delighted to see his shot find the net at the second attempt.

After good work from Lionel Messi on the edge of the area, he fed Nicolas Tagliafico on the left to cut back to Alvarez on the penalty spot. The first shot was blocked, but the new City striker was quickest to react to turn and fire Argentina ahead on the spin for his first international goal.

The first player to congratulate him? Messi.

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With World Cup qualification secured, this was an opportunity for Alvarez to stake a claim to start for the Copa America champions in Qatar. Lautaro Martinez would be considered his main competition in that regard, so a first goal for his country in his full debut came at a good time for Alvarez.

"Scoring a goal wearing this shirt was a dream I had since I was a child," Alvarez said after the game " It is something unique. I am very happy for the group. They have been doing a very good job. We have to continue on this path, we are all very excited."

The goal takes Alvarez's tally to six goals in seven appearances for club and country since signing for City. His eye-catching hat-trick against Patronato for River Plate showcased his predatory instincts, with a close-range finish, a Sergio Aguero-style angled strike, and a well-taken one-on-one goal.

His Argentina goal was promising for the fact that Alvarez was on the spot in the box, alert to the cutback and then to the second ball. He wasn't running in, he was already there - giving Argentina the presence in the box that City have lacked at