Chasing Erling Haaland: Julián Álvarez driving Atlético Madrid’s Champions League dream

Atlético Madrid’s Champions League hopes are on the line against Arsenal, and one player stands out as the key attacking figure: Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward has been one of the competition’s standout performers this season, and his focus is firmly set on reaching the final in Budapest.

Julián Álvavez: Champions League specialist

Nicknamed “The Spider,” Álvarez has delivered 14 goal contributions in 14 Champions League appearances for Atlético this season, scoring 10 times and adding four assists. His efficiency is just as impressive. Across his Champions League career, he averages a goal or assist every 80 minutes, with 34 contributions in 2,710 minutes, including 25 goals and nine assists.

Among forwards with at least 20 goal contributions in the competition, only Erling Haaland boasts a better rate, averaging one every 74 minutes.

More than just goals

Álvarez’s impact goes well beyond scoring. His work rate and tactical discipline have made him a central piece of Atlético’s system. One stat underlines his importance: he leads all players in this season’s Champions League in high pressing actions during opponent build-up sequences, with 899.

He also accounts for 16.1 percent of Atlético’s high presses in the competition, the highest share of any player for their team this season. It is a reflection of both his energy and his importance in Diego Simeone’s approach.

Making history in Madrid

Álvarez has already etched his name into Atlético Madrid history. His 10 Champions League goals this season are the most ever scored by a player for the club in a single campaign.

The previous record was held by Diego Costa, who scored eight goals during the 2013-14 season.

Will Álvarez be fit to start against Arsenal?

There is, however, some uncertainty heading into the clash with Arsenal. Álvarez was forced off before the end of last Wednesday’s game after taking a knock. Despite scoring from the penalty spot and delivering a strong performance, he could not finish the match.

He was subsequently rested for Atlético’s game against Valencia, raising questions about his availability. The expectation is that he will be fit to feature in London, where Atlético will look to book a place in the Champions League final.

If he does play, all eyes will be on Álvarez to once again deliver on Europe’s biggest stage.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that of this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.