Very true. People still talk about Alves' strong attacking, while in reality it's non existent most of the time. Just standing there on the flank and doing backpasses into infinity should not be considered a contribution in offense.
He's much better than Montoya, when going forward though. Also I don't fear his absence at the back like in previous seasons. That's because Rakitic provides amazing cover for him, much better, than Xavi.