Edson Álvarez needs to stay in Europe this summer, even if he leaves West Ham United after returning from a loan spell at Fenerbahce.
That’s the opinion of Mexican journalist Raoul ‘Pollo’ Ortiz. His comments have been relayed by Marca.
Return to West Ham
Edson Álvarez is set to return to West Ham this summer following a season-long loan deal at Fenerbahce.
The Hammers had hoped that the Turkish side would take up an option to buy the 28-year-old permanently, but they have decided against that.
Alvarez has barely featured for them this season, making just 12 appearances in the league. That’s seen him featuring in just 26% of the available minutes. That’s seen them decide against an option to buy, despite paying €2m to loan him already.
The midfielder will therefore return to the London Stadium, once he’s competed at the World Cup with Mexico.
The question is what happens after that. He does not appear to be a part of West Ham’s plans. And he will surely be one player they look to move on following relegation to the Championship this season.
Stay in Europe
With a deal until 2028, this summer may be the last in which they can secure a decent price for the midfielder too. He’s currently valued at €15m. West Ham paid €38m for him in 2023.
Reports have linked him with a potential return to Mexico, but Ortiz believes that would be the complete wrong move at this point.
“Edson Álvarez should return to West Ham next season,” he said on the Fox Sports programme +90.
“There’s talk that Rayados, Tigres, and América could say, ‘You know what, come here.’ Two years ago, he was close to joining Chelsea. And even last year there was talk of a return to Ajax.
“He should stay in Europe. Injuries have plagued him. But in my opinion, he has the level to continue playing in Europe.”