The Argentine has enjoyed a fine first season in Manchester since moving from River Plate, scoring 14 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions.
He has scored twice in the continental competition so far, with those strikes coming in the home group stage wins over Copenhagen and Sevilla.
The striker was a youngster in his previous club’s squad when they lifted the 2018 Copa Libertadores, the South American equivalent of the Champions League, but did star as River lifted the Argentinian Primera Division in 2021.
In the winter, he played a crucial role as Argentina lifted the World Cup. Since then, he has returned to the Etihad determined to help Pep Guardiola’s side as we chase trophies in three competitions.
However, Alvarez does believe the quality of opponents in Europe is higher than he has previously experienced.
“Yes, at club level it’s obviously noticeable,” he said.
“It is Europe, most of the best players in the world play in these leagues.
“Although Copa Libertadores is also very difficult because of what football means in South America.
“Speaking of the World Cup, there are also very strong teams, but here in Europe, in these types of competitions the best teams are here.
“The players are very strong but that is the most beautiful thing that can happen to me, to be in the best club competition in the world.”
The 23-year-old was a second half substitute in last week’s first leg victory over Bayern Munich and had a crucial hand in City’s third, crossing for John Stones to nod to scorer Erling Haaland.
With City 3-0 up heading into the second leg and a potential third semi-final in three seasons just 90 minutes away, Alvarez is full of confidence for the trip to the Allianz Arena.
Speaking on his role, he said: “I knew I had to be prepared because they were many competitions at stake and obviously the Champions League is one of the most important.
“Now we are in the quarter-finals, having gone through in a great way against Leipzig, and now a great rival like Bayern Munich. We are prepared for this kind of matches and to fight in all competitions.”
Bayern Munich v City
We will have full coverage of Wednesday’s game right here on the official Man City app.
Our Matchday Centre gets under way at 18:00, providing you with live text updates.
Our Matchday Live programme will begin shortly before team news arrives at 18:45 (UK).
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Natalie Pike will be in the studio with Steve Howey, Shaun Goater and Steph Houghton to give you a City-centric view on events in Germany.
During the game, Alistair Mann and Michael Brown will talk you through proceedings with our radio commentary offering.
Highlights will be available at 23:00 and CITY+ subscribers can watch a full 90-minute replay from midnight.
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