West Ham United loanee Edson Alvarez has been dealt a fitness blow – although he’s not likely to miss the 2026 World Cup.
After a strong start to life at West Ham United, former Ajax midfielder Alvarez subsequently struggled and was farmed out on loan to Turkish giants Fenerbahce in August.
Alvarez has won the Turkish Cup with Fenerbahce, but he did miss the final after suffering an injury.
Now, the Mexican international has undergone surgery.
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Josh Ajala of West Ham in action during the National League Cup match between Sutton United and West Ham United U21 at VBS Community Stadium on December 17, 2024 in Sutton, England.
As per Fabrizio Romano, the midfielder’s operation has been a success and his World Cup hopes are not in doubt.
Alvarez has 96 caps for his country, who are joint-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. Their campaign begins on Thursday, 11 June, 2026 against South Africa.
Edson Alvarez embraces Milan Skriniar after Fenerbahce beat Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Cup final.
Photo by Burak Basturk / Middle East Images / AFP via Getty Images
West Ham United’s involvement in Edson Alvarez operation
Alvarez’s contract at West Ham United runs until the summer of 2027, although previous reports have suggested that the Istanbul giants have an option to buy him at the end of the current campaign.
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Still, he remains at least partly on the books here in east London, so the Irons do have some sort of say in the matter.
Speaking to Mexican outlet TUDN, Mexico sporting director Duilio Davin revealed that West Ham were involved in the discussions that led to Alvarez’s surgery.
“It was a complex case because he has a contract with Fenerbahce,” he said.
“West Ham owns his rights, so they have to be involved in the decision regarding his health. The player was experiencing ankle pain, and we’re on track to have him back in top form, as he is our captain today.”
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A graphic showing Carlton Cole's comments on West Ham United defender Axel Disasi. It reads 'he's a proper solider'.
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Edson Alvarez’s former teammates react to his injury
Alvarez wished West Ham well for the 2025/26 season upon his departure and some of his former teammates sent messages of support when he confirmed the news of his surgery on Instagram.
He uploaded a post: “I firmly believe that everything that happens has a purpose, even when it’s not easy to understand.”
“I am 100% focused on my recovery to come back stronger and continue doing what I love most.
Jarrod Bowen responded with a couple of love heart emojis, while former Hammer Guido Rodriguez wrote: “Let’s go, friend! Getting into that recovery.”
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