Varun Pai
Trabsfer News: Former River Plate president warns Julian Alvarez he could miss 2022 FIFA World Cup if he leaves club amid Manchester United interest
Speaking to TNT Sports, as reported by El Litoral, as quoted by The Mirror, Former River Plate president Rodolfo D’Onofrio has warned Julian Alvarez that he could miss out on the 2022 World Cup if he leaves the club amidst Manchester United interest.
The 21-year-old has been the talk of the continent in the past year. His sizzling performances for River Plate helped the club win their first league championship since 2008. The striker scored 18 goals in 21 games and led the line brilliantly.
Man United caught a glimpse of this and want the player amongst their ranks. They would also be aware that the youngster has a £17million release clause in his contract. Thus, a move could take place but former River Plate president Rodolfo D’Onofrio is of a different opinion.
The 72-year-old has warned the centre-forward that he could miss out on the World Cup next year if he secures a move away from the Argentinian champions.
“If he (Alvarez) goes to Europe, acclimatization and everything that happens with the players, he is going to miss the World Cup.”
Man United could be the right fit for Alvarez
Playing at the World Cup is perhaps the quintessential dream of any professional player. South Americans, in particular, take a lot of pride in representing their country, and Alvarez might be no different. But there is no guarantee that he would be selected by Argentina if he stays at River Plate.
Man United could, if nothing, provide him with the limelight and platform for him to be noticed by the national team coaches. If he proves to be pivotal for us in any competition, that could go a long way in convincing Lionel Scaloni to select the striker for FIFA’s premier competition.
Moreover, South Americans have more or less taken well to the Theatre of Dreams. Carlos Tevez, Diogo Forlan, and Edinson Cavani have succeeded at Old Trafford, and the next centre-forward on the list could be Alvarez.
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D’Onofrio might want the best for his former disciple, but he needs to make a big move at some point. There are few affordable young strikers available in the market. At 21, the Argentinian international can take his time to settle into English football. Moreover, with Ralf Rangnick holding a position at the club beyond this season, the River Plate ace should be assured that the youth would always be given chances at Man United.
With Cristiano Ronaldo still going strong up front and the likes of Mason Greenwood, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Elanga, Cavani, and Anthony Martial consistently vying for places, Alvarez may not be guaranteed a starting spot straightaway. But then again, he has made a solid reputation already for him to be eligible for a call-up this summer even if his minutes reduce.
