Edson Álvarez is set to return to West Ham United after Mexico were knocked out of the World Cup by England. However, he could be about to join the Bundesliga side, FC Köln.
Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany posted on X: "Köln are exploring a deal to sign Edson Álvarez. Difficult to complete, but Köln are trying. The 28 y/o midfielder is open to joining Effzeh with immediate effect."
Álvarez is Mexico's captain, but he had a reduced role at the World Cup. He started just two of their games and was left on the bench as they defeated Ecuador in the round of 16. Against England, Alvarez came on at halftime and was visibly emotional after his country was defeated 3-2.
A reason for his limited role at the tournament was that he missed much of last season due to ankle surgery. He was on loan at Fenerbahce, but made just 18 appearances in total for the Super Lig side.
Would Álvarez be a good fit for FC Köln?
Álvarez would be reluctant to play in the Championship after spending his entire career so far playing top-flight soccer. He began his career with Club América before moving to Europe with Ajax and then on to West Ham.
Letting him go on loan to Fenerbahce was a mistake by Graham Potter. Álvarez is a leader, and the Hammers lacked characters like him as they were relegated from the Premier League last season.
The Mexican has shown in his career so far that he is not afraid to try different leagues. Köln would be a new challenge for him. However, the club could be in for a fight against relegation with them. Köln finished 14th in the Bundesliga last season, which is just six points above the automatic drop-zone places.
If Álvarez were to stay at West Ham, he would be part of a side that is expected to challenge for automatic promotion back to the Premier League. The Hammers have already lost Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham Hotspur this summer. Tomas Soucek is expected to be out long-term with a knee injury. Nuno Espirito Santo will need to strengthen his midfield if the club is to let Álvarez go.
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