While Julian Alvarez earned 7 million, the salary that Omar Marmoush would have with Manchester City

Manchester City's recent transfer activity has once again placed the club's wage structure under the microscope. The stark contrast between the reported salaries of outgoing striker Julián Álvarez and incoming forward Omar Marmoush has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike.

When Álvarez made the move to Atlético de Madrid, it was revealed that he was earning a substantial salary of €7 million per year at the Etihad Stadium. This figure reflected his status as a promising young talent and a key part of Pep Guardiola's plans. However, with the club now preparing to welcome Omar Marmoush, reports suggest that the Egyptian international will be earning significantly less.

Sources close to the deal have indicated that Marmoush is set to earn around €5 million per year at Manchester City. While this is still a considerable sum of money, it is notably lower than the salary that Álvarez was commanding. The disparity between the two players' wages has sparked a debate about the factors that influence a player's salary at a club like Manchester City.

One possible explanation for the difference in wages is the stage of each player's career. Álvarez had already established himself as a regular starter for both club and country when he joined City, while Marmoush is still considered a relatively unproven talent. Additionally, the market value of the two players may also play a role, with Álvarez commanding a higher fee when he signed for City.

Another factor to consider is the club's overall wage structure. Manchester City has one of the highest wage bills in world football, and the club may be looking to spread its wealth more evenly among its squad. By offering Marmoush a lower salary, City can free up funds to pursue other transfer targets or to invest in their academy.

The disparity between Álvarez and Marmoush's salaries has also raised questions about the club's valuation of different positions. While strikers are often among the highest-paid players at a club, the value placed on forwards can vary depending on their playing style and the team's tactical approach.

Regardless of the reasons behind the difference in wages, it is clear that Manchester City's wage structure is a complex and multifaceted issue. The club must carefully balance the need to attract and retain top talent with the need to maintain financial sustainability. As the club continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how its wage structure develops in the years to come.

Álvarez's Impressive Stint at Manchester City

Julián Álvarez's time at Manchester City was marked by a consistent upward trajectory and a series of impressive performances that solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in world football. Despite facing stiff competition for a starting place in Pep Guardiola's star-studded squad, the Argentine forward managed to carve out a significant role for himself.

Álvarez's versatility was one of his greatest assets during his time at the Etihad Stadium. He could operate as a central striker, a second striker, or even on the wing, giving Guardiola tactical flexibility. His ability to press high up the pitch and his excellent link-up play made him an ideal fit for City's possession-based style of play.

The Argentine's goal-scoring record was also impressive, considering the limited amount of first-team football he received. He regularly found the net in both domestic and European competitions, showcasing his clinical finishing and composure in front of goal. Álvarez's performances for City earned him a place in the Argentina national team, where he played a key role in their successful World Cup campaign in 2022.

Despite his undeniable talent, Álvarez faced challenges during his time at City. The presence of established strikers such as Erling Haaland and Gabriel Jesus meant that he had to be patient for opportunities. However, whenever he was given a chance, he seized it with both hands. His ability to adapt to different roles and his willingness to work hard for the team made him a valuable asset to Guardiola's squad.

Álvarez's departure to Atlético Madrid in 2024 was a surprise to many fans, who had hoped to see him continue his development at City. However, the move to LaLiga provided the Argentine with a new challenge and an opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter. While it remains to be seen whether Álvarez will be able to replicate his success at Atlético Madrid, there is no doubt that his time at Manchester City was a significant chapter in his career.