Alvarez: I'm used to playing with other strikers; I hope Messi will return soon

Beijing time on September 6, in the 7th round of the World Cup South American qualifiers, Argentina will face Chile. Before the game, Argentine player Alvarez was interviewed.

Alvarez said: "These two games are very important for us, so we focus on them. We know that Chile is a tough opponent and will not let us win easily. We must use our advantages to win."

When talking about his personal state, he explained that he felt good, but admitted that it was a "change" from the Premier League to La Liga.

Asked if he would play up front alongside Lautaro in Messi's absence, Alvarez replied: "For now we don't know, just in training, but we do train together sometimes and the coaching staff will decide tomorrow or in the next few days."

He then compared the opportunity to partner another striker to his current situation at Atletico Madrid: "It's part of football and I've played many times with other strikers in different positions, depending on the needs of the team and the coaching staff, so I'm used to it."

Speaking of Messi and Di Maria not being involved in this month's two South American qualifiers, Alvarez said: "I don't know when or if this last happened, but we have to adapt. We know that Di Maria will get the tribute he deserves and as for Messi... hopefully he'll be back with us soon."

Speaking of the "pressure" after becoming world champions and Copa America double winners, he said it's always the same. Alvarez said: "(My idea has always been) to represent the Argentine national team and do my best. We all want to be here, to show ourselves in every game and every minute. Each of us is very competitive. This is also the requirement of the coaching staff. We can't relax and always maintain high standards. We must continue to represent the national team and keep it at the highest level."