Julián Álvarez Impresses in First English Interview, Praises Teacher Sara Duque

Julián Álvarez, the 22-year-old Argentine striker who has made a splash at the World Cup, impressed fans and pundits alike in his first English language interview this week. Álvarez, who has scored two goals in two starts for Argentina, credited his English teacher Sara Duque for how quickly he has learned the language since joining Manchester City last year.

In the interview, conducted entirely in English, Álvarez spoke about his experience at the World Cup and adapting to life in England. "It's been an incredible experience playing in my first World Cup, especially alongside great players like Messi," Álvarez said. "And Manchester has been great. My teammates and coaches have helped me a lot, but I have to give a lot of credit to my English teacher Sara. She's really helped me learn the language quickly."

Álvarez's lethal finishing and relentless work ethic have earned him praise from fans and his manager Pep Guardiola, who rates the young striker highly. He has taken advantage of Lautaro Martínez's failure to establish himself as Argentina's starting center forward at the World Cup. Álvarez previously made headlines when he scored six goals in a single Copa Libertadores match.

Sara Duque, Álvarez's English teacher, expressed pride in her student's progress. "Julián has been an excellent student, always working hard and pushing himself to improve," Duque said. "It's gratifying to see him not only succeeding on the pitch but also in his language skills. He's a great example for anyone trying to learn a new language."

Why this matters: Álvarez's rapid mastery of English highlights the importance of language skills for foreign players adapting to new leagues and cultures. His success both on and off the pitch serves as an inspiration for young players around the world.

Manchester City currently sits second in the Premier League table, with Álvarez serving as the primary backup to star striker Erling Haaland. Argentina has advanced to the quarterfinals of the World Cup, where they will face the Netherlands on Friday. Álvarez is expected to start again with Martínez still struggling to find form.

Key Takeaways

• Julián Álvarez, 22, impresses in first English interview after World Cup success.
• Álvarez credits English teacher Sara Duque for his rapid language learning.
• Álvarez's lethal finishing and work ethic earn praise from fans and Pep Guardiola.
• Álvarez expected to start for Argentina in World Cup quarterfinal against Netherlands.
• Álvarez's language skills highlight importance for foreign players adapting to new leagues.