“He needed time” – Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone hits out at Julian Alvarez critics

Julian Alvarez has had a very slow start to his Atletico Madrid life, and given his big-money move from Manchester City this summer, his performances immediately came under scrutiny. This led to criticism, although those who spoke out are now starting to eat their words.

Alvarez has scored six goals in his last six games for Atleti, including one in the 5-0 win over Real Valladolid on Saturday. After that match, his manager Diego Simeone spoke very highly of him to DAZN (via Diario AS).

“He needed time. All footballers need time, and those with a hierarchy need to be waited on. Julian has gone from less to more since he started. He grew in his ability to interpret how Atletico play. He comes from a different style in Argentina, and also completely different at City. He needed his time. Atletico is this, and they are interpreting it better and better. All his qualities are very beneficial to our team.”

It is now seven wins in a row for Atletico Madrid, who are now the top team in La Liga. Simeone also spoke about the club's current situation.

“There are always things that can be improved. The team is looking better and better. We said some time ago that new people needed time to adapt. Conor is very good, Lenglet is in a very good moment, not to mention Sorloth, and Julian is in a very good step. We are waiting for Robin, who will have to compete to get a place.”