Arsenal Transfer Choices: Should They Have Signed Julian Alvarez?

Arsenal transfer decisions continue to spark debate among fans and pundits, especially as the Gunners prepare to face Atletico Madrid in a much-anticipated Champions League clash. The spotlight is firmly on Mikel Arteta’s striker selection, with many questioning whether Arsenal made the right call in signing Viktor Gyokeres instead of pursuing Atletico Madrid’s standout forward, Julian Alvarez.

Arsenal Transfer Dilemma and the Search for a No.9

Arsenal transfer strategy has long revolved around finding a prolific No.9 to lead the attack, hearkening back to the glory days of Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp. In recent years, the Gunners have struggled to find a striker of similar stature, with the likes of Olivier Giroud, Alexandre Lacazette, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang offering varying levels of success. Gabriel Jesus showed promise upon arrival in 2022, but injuries have hampered his contributions, while Kai Havertz’s versatility has been invaluable but he isn’t a natural striker.

With an over-reliance on Bukayo Saka and Havertz for goals, Arsenal’s need for a top-class center-forward became even more apparent during a challenging, injury-plagued 2024-25 campaign.

Why Arsenal Chose Viktor Gyokeres Over Julian Alvarez

Heading into the summer transfer window, Arsenal’s shortlist was headlined by Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres. Arteta sought a physically dominant striker capable of unsettling Premier League defenses. Despite spending around £250 million across the window, budget limitations prevented the club from pursuing their initial top target, Sesko, who ultimately joined Manchester United.

Negotiations for Gyokeres were drawn out but successful, with Sporting CP agreeing to a fee just over £60 million. Gyokeres’ impressive record in Portugal and England’s Championship made him an appealing “ready-made” solution, but his adaptation to Arsenal’s system has been slow. In his first 11 games, the Swede has only managed three goals, sparking concerns among supporters about his suitability as the club’s main striker.

Julian Alvarez: The One That Got Away?

While Gyokeres and Sesko dominated transfer rumors, Julian Alvarez’s name was also linked to Arsenal. The former Manchester City forward has thrived at Atletico Madrid, tallying 29 goals and eight assists in his debut season and continuing to shine with seven goals and three assists in his first 10 games of the current campaign. Despite his slightly smaller stature compared to Gyokeres, Alvarez’s off-ball movement and technical quality arguably fit Arteta’s tactical blueprint.

However, financial constraints and Atletico’s reluctance to sell meant a deal never materialized. Sporting director Andrea Berta, who had previously overseen Alvarez’s arrival at Atletico for up to £81.8 million, reportedly cooled Arsenal’s interest due to the transfer’s high costs.

Arsenal Transfer Choices Under the Microscope

As Arsenal and Atletico Madrid prepare to meet, the spotlight intensifies on Arteta’s striker decision. Gyokeres’ lack of goals—a nine-game drought—has led to questions about his long-term impact. Arteta remains supportive, emphasizing Gyokeres’ work rate and mentality, but acknowledges the pressure that comes with wearing Arsenal’s iconic No.9 shirt.

Meanwhile, Alvarez continues to impress in Spain. His hat-trick against Real Madrid reinvigorated Atletico’s season, and his resilience, experience, and versatility make him a valuable asset. Pep Guardiola has publicly praised Alvarez, even expressing a wish to have retained him at Manchester City.

Comparing the Profiles: Who Fits Best?

While Gyokeres offers physical presence and a direct approach, Alvarez brings technical excellence and intelligent movement. His experience in both England and Spain, combined with a World Cup winner’s pedigree, arguably make him a more proven “win-now” option. With over 340 senior appearances at just 25 years old, Alvarez’s reliability and consistency are clear for all to see.

On the other hand, Gyokeres is still adapting to the Premier League’s demands. His struggles against top defenses and even less formidable sides highlight the challenges of transitioning from other leagues. Nevertheless, Arsenal’s strong league position affords Gyokeres the time he needs to find his feet.

Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal: A Chance to Reflect

The upcoming Champions League encounter offers a fascinating subplot. Arsenal will be out for revenge after their painful Europa League semi-final defeat to Atletico in 2018—a tie that ended Arsene Wenger’s hopes of one last trophy. While expectations are high for Arsenal to prevail given their strong start to the season, Alvarez remains a potential game-changer capable of disrupting the script.

Atletico, under Diego Simeone, have rebounded from a slow start and now look poised to challenge Europe’s elite once again. For Arsenal, this clash is more than just a test of their European credentials—it’s an opportunity to evaluate recent transfer decisions on the biggest stage.

Opinion: Did Arsenal Get It Right?

In hindsight, Arsenal’s decision to sign Viktor Gyokeres over Julian Alvarez remains a topic of debate. While Gyokeres has the attributes Arteta sought, his adaptation has been slower than hoped. Alvarez, meanwhile, continues to thrive at Atletico and could have added a different dimension to Arsenal’s attack. Ultimately, only time will tell if Arteta’s calculated risk pays off, but the debate highlights the fine margins involved in elite-level recruitment.

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