He made his debut on 2 September 2011 against Venezuela in a friendly. Four days later, Álvarez played in another friendly, this time against Nigeria. He made another appearance in the 2014 World Cup qualification match against Bolivia. On 2 June 2014, Álvarez was called up for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Style of play A left-footed and technically gifted playmaker, Álvarez is usually deployed as an attacking midfielder, due to his ability to both score and create goals. He has been praised for his work-rate, stamina, and tactical versatility, and is capable of playing anywhere in midfield, as well as in several offensive positions; he has also been deployed as a second striker, as a central midfielder, or as a right winger, a position which allows him to cut inside and shoot on goal with his stronger left foot. Nicknamed Ricky Maravilla, he was regarded as a talented and promising prospect in his youth, and his elegant playing style, shy personality, height and physique initially drew comparisons with Kaká and Javier Pastore, although he has stated that his main inspirations as a footballer were Zinedine Zidane and Riquelme. His main attributes are his powerful striking ability from distance, dribbling skills, and creativity, which along with his movement and acceleration often sees him exploit spaces by embarking on trademark solo runs with the ball; however, he has also drawn criticism from pundits for his lack of pace and inconsistent performances. In recent seasons, his playing time has also been limited due to several injuries. As such, he has been accused in the media of failing to live up to his initial potential. Career statistics Club International International goals Scores and results list Argentina's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Álvarez goal. Honours Vélez Sársfield Argentine Primera División: 2011 Clausura Internazionale Supercoppa Italiana runner-up: 2011 Argentina FIFA World Cup runner-up: 2014 References External links Profile at Vélez Sársfield's official website Living people 1988 births Argentine footballers Argentine expatriate footballers Association football midfielders Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield footballers Inter Milan players Sunderland A.F.C. players U.C. Sampdoria players Atlas F.C. footballers Argentine Primera División players Serie A players Premier League players Liga MX players Expatriate footballers in Mexico Expatriate footballers in Italy Expatriate footballers in England Argentina international footballers Argentine expatriate sportspeople in Italy Argentine expatriate sportspeople in England Argentine expatriate sportspeople in Mexico 2014 FIFA World Cup players Footballers