Ex-Man City star Pep Guardiola 'would re-sign' encouraged to join Arsenal who have trump card

Arsenal have been urged to sign one of Pep Guardiola's former players, who spent two years at Manchester City, with a potential return to the Premier League tipped for this summer

Former Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez has been linked with a return back to the Premier League, and ex-Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has urged his old club to sign him. The 26‑year‑old left the Etihad Stadium in the summer of 2024 for a fee of £81.5million in pursuit of regular game time.

He has enjoyed his spell in La Liga, but speculation over his future has grown ahead of the summer, with both Arsenal and Chelsea reportedly monitoring his situation. Barcelona are also said to be keeping tabs on the forward, who Atletico could command a fee exceeding €100million (£86m).

However, Arsenal may possess a crucial edge in any potential deal, given that their sporting director, Andrea Berta, orchestrated Alvarez's transfer from City to the Wanda Metropolitano during the summer of 2024.

Petit meanwhile, believes the Argentine would be an ideal fit for Mikel Arteta's attacking setup, arguing he possesses the qualities to flourish under the Spanish boss.

Speaking to Ignition Casino, Petit said: "When Julian Alvarez was playing for City, I really liked him. He didn't start every single game but every time he played for City, and for Atletico [Madrid] as well since, he has been really special.

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"He can score goals and give assists, but he's got temper, personality, and character. I think in terms of movement he is very intelligent. Physically as well, he's a top player and technically, he's got everything to suit the best clubs in Europe.

"The reason why he left City was because he wanted to play regular football, but I think Pep Guardiola would be very happy to have him back in the squad."

Discussing the Gunners' upper hand and potential trump card, Petit added: "So definitely, if Arsenal have a chance to get him, with the connection with the Spanish players and the way they play up front, I think that would be great news for Arsenal.

"That would be a very, very good addition to the squad and a statement."

Guardiola has previously confessed he'd be pleased to welcome Alvarez back into his team. "Maybe I'd love to have him... But I understand why he left," Guardiola remarked last October."

"Julian Alvarez is top. That's why now he's at one of the best clubs in the world, Atleti, playing for a top class manager, players, performing unbelievably."

The Argentine has netted 12 goals and provided six assists in 34 appearances across all competitions.

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