There may not be a team in the entire 2026 FIFA World Cup who has had a better start to the tournament than Argentina.
They opened Group J play last week with a dominant 3-0 win over Algeria and again kept a clean sheet against Austria on Monday, winning 2-0. All five goals through the first two matches have been netted by Lionel Messi, who became the World Cup's all-time leading goal scorer.
While Messi is frequently in discussions for being the best of all time and frequently makes the most headlines, he isn't the only star for the Argentina side. Among the more notable players on the squad is Atlético forward, Julian Alvarez.
He hasn't had the loudest World Cup by any means, logging just one shot on goal, but he has proven to be a productive player over the years. Despite logging 22 starts and 29 appearances for Atlético this season, he revealed after Argentina's win that he is looking for a fresh start elsewhere.
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"I don't think it's the moment to talk about this, but I also can't hide nor pretend," Alvarez said. "Honestly, I try to be an honest person. I spoke honestly with the people about the club, with the people I had to speak with."
When asked by a reporter if he wants to leave, Alvarez expressed that it'd be best for all involved.
"I believe the best thing for everyone is a transfer," Alvarez added. "I want to fulfill my dream."
Regarding the dream, Fabrizio Romano reported on Monday that Alvarez agreed to move to FC Barcelona, but that it is now up to the clubs to negotiate after Atlético rejected a $100 million offer for the 26-year-old.
