A total of 14 Players were initially nominated for the player of the year award, having been selected by a panel of experts. Votes were then cast by international managers, captains, journalists and fans, with voters being asked to select their top three Players in order.

Incredibly, Alvarez finished seventh in the standings and received more votes than a whole host of other stars, with Neymar down in ninth, Kevin de Bruyne finishing in 10th and Salah ending the night in 14th. That’s despite the fact the 23-year-old only moved to the Etihad Stadium last summer and has been mainly used as a substitute for the Citizens.

Alvarez’s finishing position was criticised by digital creator ofuiclear on Instagram. And Chelsea defender Silva showed his anger at the decision as he replied by posting: “Joke right there.”

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Alvarez is currently behind blockbuster star Erling Haaland in the City pecking order but has impressed when called upon this season. And on Tuesday night he grabbed an assist as the Citizens defeated Bristol City 3-0 in the fifth round of the FA Cup courtesy of two goals from Phil Foden and a strike from Kevin De Bruyne.

Alvarez scored his first FA Cup goal during his side’s 4-0 third round thrashing of Chelsea in January. And following that match, City boss Pep Guardiola lauded the star as he explained: “I missed his happiness. He helped us a lot, with the World Cup.

“He played really, really well. I said many times, we are now still in four competitions, so we need all the squad. Everyone is humble to accept the minutes for the team, they will be welcome to be part of this team.”