With both De Bruyne and Haaland returning, City are World Champions and have the Premier League title in their own hands.
Phil Foden is getting the plaudits for his exceptional form at number ten - but Alvarez has arguably been City's more important deputy. To be able to ease the burden of De Bruyne's loss, and then Haaland's, is no mean feat. They are not only the best two players at City, but arguably the best two players in the world.
It's noticeable that Alvarez has adapted his game whether at number nine or ten, acting as City's world-class chameleon for the first half of the season. He may lose his place when everyone is fit, but has already played a key part in getting the Blues through their injury crisis in 2023.
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