At 27 years old, Edson Alvarez is the youngest among [West Ham’s](https://www.claretandhugh.info/exclusive-west-ham-insider-confirms-big-edson-alvarez-development/) quartet of central midfielders. With 93 caps for Mexico his recent designation as surplus to requirements has raised eyebrows—and piqued the interest of several top European clubs sensing a cut-price opportunity.
Despite the club’s stance, the numbers paint Alvarez as a standout performer relative to Guido Rodriguez, Tomas Soucek and James Ward-Prowse. Looking at the data from last season:
* **Tackles per game**: Alvarez leads with 2.3, ahead of Rodríguez (1.6), Souček (1.5), and Ward-Prowse (1.2)
* **Interceptions**: Again, Alvarez tops the chart with 1.9, compared to Souček (1.1), Ward-Prowse (0.8), and Rodríguez (0.6)
* **Pass completion**: Alvarez boasts 88%, bettering Ward-Prowse (86%), Rodríguez (85%), and Souček (82%)
* **Ball recoveries**: He leads this category as well
* **Aerial duels**: Second only to Souček
* **Creative output**: Ward-Prowse leads in assists and key passes, as expected
The data reinforces the view that Alvarez is tailor-made for high-intensity pressing systems and fulfils the classic defensive midfielder role with precision. Yet, reports suggest that Graham Potter insists he doesn’t suit his tactical setup—a claim that seems at odds with the data. A more plausible explanation might lie in his £100k-a-week wage, which could be the real sticking point: Either that or there’s simply a clash of personalities ( AKA management fail) which sees the Hammers’ head coach intent on ditching Alvarez.
West Ham’s generous wage structure has drawn criticism, but it’s also what’s enabled them to attract talent from elite European clubs. Let’s be honest—players aren’t flocking to East London for the jellied eels and pie and mash. The financial package has always been the main course.
Whether West Ham have the infrastructure and scouting network to move forward to an alternative model – finding younger players with potential at lower transfer fees and salaries remains to be seen.
Regardless, shifting players on high salaries limits the pool of interested clubs, a reality underscored by this current transfer window.