Alvarez Criticized After Lackluster Performance Against Jordan

Argentinian striker Julian Alvarez has raised more questions about his level after delivering a lackluster performance during his first start for the Argentina national team in the 2026 World Cup against Jordan, just days after his statements expressing his desire to leave Atletico Madrid.

Alvarez had previously stated that it would be best for everyone to seek a new transfer this summer, opening the door to widespread speculation about his future with the Spanish club, amidst interest from several major European clubs in acquiring his services.

Despite getting the opportunity to start for Argentina after securing qualification to the next round, the 25-year-old striker failed to capitalize on it, receiving a rating of 5.8 according to statistical sites, the lowest among the Argentinian players.

Alvarez managed just one shot on target, with an expected goals rate of 0.9, and touched the ball only 43 times, including three touches inside the penalty area, without creating any significant chances for his teammates.

The Argentinian media criticized the player's performance, with Olé newspaper giving him a rating of 6, the lowest among the starting lineup, noting his lack of precision in passes in the final third, while Clarin newspaper rated him 5, stating that he failed to showcase his attacking abilities and appeared far from his usual level.

The criticism also extended to social media, especially with the ongoing competition between Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez for the main striker position in the Argentina national team, as the Inter Milan striker boosted his chances after scoring a goal in the same match and delivering a more convincing performance.

This decline comes at a time when reports suggest that Alvarez's market value could reach 150 million euros, while many believe that his current level in the World Cup does not reflect this value, especially compared to his performance in the 2022 World Cup when he played a key role in Argentina's title win.