Man City boss Guardiola reacts to new deal and congratulates Alvarez, Otamendi and Messi | OneFootball

Man City boss Pep Guardiola has congratulated striker Julian Alvarez on his World Cup success with Argentina.

City forward Alvarez was one of the stars of his country’s triumph at Qatar 2022.

Guardiola has also been quick to praise Lionel Messi, with whom he enjoyed great success at Barcelona, and former City defender Nicolas Otamendi.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Guardiola said: “We’re delighted for Julian, he played a lot, his contribution was amazing for the team.

“We have a world champion in our team. We are incredibly happy for him. Congratulations to him and Otamendi, and personally to Messi. To Argentina, well deserved.”

Man City had 16 players at the World Cup, who are all now at varying stages of fitness having taken breaks at different times following their exits from the tournament.

Guardiola said: “Step by step people come back and we are happy they are back.

“We will see (how they are) but I have the feeling that the players who were at the World Cup are in better condition than players who weren’t.”

Guardiola signed a new two-year contract last month, committing him to Man City until 2025.

He said: “I don’t have enough words to express my gratitude for this club. Thank you so much for the confidence they have in me.”

Guardiola was speaking ahead of his side’s return to action following domestic football’s World Cup hiatus in a Carabao Cup tie against rivals Liverpool on Thursday.

The last encounter between the two sides in October saw a number of unsavoury incidents on and off the field, and since then both clubs have made attempts to diffuse tensions.

Asked if he had a message for fans, Guardiola said: “Be supportive, support your team unconditionally. Enjoy the game with incredible players on both sides.”