Julián Álvarez has reached 21 goals in his debut season with Atlético Madrid, matching the mark set by Luis Suárez in 2020-21, when the Rojiblancos secured their most recent LaLiga EA Sports title. The Argentine striker has been instrumental in Diego Simeone’s squad, keeping them in contention for the league crown while also preparing for the crucial Champions League derby against Real Madrid.

Álvarez's Immediate Impact at Atlético Madrid

Since his arrival, Álvarez has established himself as a key player in Simeone’s system, making significant contributions across all competitions:

LaLiga: Atlético remains in control of their title destiny.
Copa del Rey: The club is in the semi-finals after the thrilling 4-4 draw against Barcelona.
Champions League: Their Round of 16 first-leg clash against Real Madrid is looming.

The 24-year-old has already played 40 matches, netting 21 goals, and starting 31 times. His clutch performances, such as the match-winning goal against Athletic Club (1-0), highlight his growing influence.

Álvarez vs. Suárez: A More Efficient Goal-Scorer?

When comparing efficiency, Álvarez appears to have an edge over Suárez in their respective debut seasons at Atlético Madrid:

Julián Álvarez vs. Luis Suárez (First Season at Atlético Madrid)
Julián Álvarez → 21 goals in 2,593 minutes
Luis Suárez → 21 goals in 2,982 minutes
Shot Efficiency → Álvarez has needed fewer shots to reach the same goal tally

Álvarez has converted 21 goals from just 42 shots on target, whereas Suárez required 45 attempts to hit that mark. Furthermore, Álvarez has significantly outperformed his expected goals (xG) tally of 12.16, compared to Suárez’s 15.39 xG in the 2020-21 campaign.

"When we confirmed Julián Álvarez’s signing, we were thrilled because we knew we had a special player, just like when Luis Suárez arrived. These players have a unique gift," Simeone stated after Álvarez’s goal against Athletic Club.

Can Álvarez Replicate Suárez’s Championship Influence?

Despite his remarkable stats, Álvarez has yet to match Suárez’s decisive impact during Atlético’s last title-winning season.

Game-Changing Contributions to Atlético’s Victories:
Luis Suárez (2020-21): His goals directly contributed to 11 wins and 2 draws in LaLiga.
Julián Álvarez (2024-25): Has secured 8 wins and 3 draws across all competitions.

Suárez was pivotal in decisive victories against Celta Vigo, Getafe, Valencia, Osasuna, and Valladolid, which sealed Atlético’s 2021 LaLiga title.

Meanwhile, Álvarez has proven to be a match-winner in multiple competitions, but he still has the chance to step up in defining moments, such as the upcoming Champions League derby against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.

With Atlético, Barcelona, and Real Madrid locked in a fierce title race, Álvarez has the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Suárez and David Villa, two key signings who propelled Atlético to league glory in 2020-21 and 2013-14, respectively.