Edson Álvarez has opened up about his summer move from West Ham United to Fenerbahçe, admitting it was far from straightforward. The Mexico international, who joined the Hammers from Ajax in 2023, left on loan late in the window after Graham Potter made clear he was no longer central to his plans.
Álvarez explained to Fox Sports Mexico, via Miroslava Montemayor, that choosing to leave the Premier League was emotionally tough, but he ultimately prioritised his own career. “Obviously, it was a very difficult decision knowing I was leaving the Premier League. In the end, I made the decision primarily for myself, because at the end of the day, this is my career, it’s my story,” he said.
The 27-year-old also pointed out that his family’s backing helped him make peace with the decision: “Supported by my family, which I think is the most important thing. If you have the support of your family, your friends, your close people, well, I think it makes it even easier.”
Mourinho departure complicates Álvarez move
The midfielder completed his switch to Turkey on 23 August, when José Mourinho was still in charge at Fenerbahçe. Just a week later, however, the Portuguese coach left the club. Having held extensive talks with Mourinho before committing, Álvarez admitted the manager was a key factor in his decision.
“Obviously, and it’s no secret, because it was said everywhere that a large part of my decision was because of him [Mourinho]… he was a key factor. Obviously, when they give you the news, it’s not pleasant to hear, but well, I’m not going to stay and cry.” — Edson Álvarez
Despite his disappointment, Álvarez stressed that he also joined because of Fenerbahçe’s ambitious board and competitive squad. He is now focused on impressing under new coach Domenico Tedesco.
Edson Álvarez 2025/26 season snapshot
| Stat (2025/26) | Edson Álvarez |
|---|---|
| Appearances (Fenerbahçe) | — |
| Goals | — |
| Assists | — |
| Injury Status | Awaiting scan results (national team injury) |
source: Fox Sports Mexico – 15 September 2025
Álvarez has yet to make a defining impact in Turkey, and his immediate progress has been stalled by an injury sustained while on international duty. Test results are pending, leaving uncertainty over when he will return to action.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Álvarez has shown maturity in how he has handled both his West Ham exit and Mourinho’s departure:
“Álvarez could have reacted badly to the managerial change, but instead he’s taken responsibility and doubled down on the opportunity. His words about not crying reflect a player determined to control what he can. That mindset will serve him well in adapting to Tedesco’s system.”
He added that Álvarez’s versatility and leadership could still make him a cornerstone for Fenerbahçe this season: “If he returns quickly from injury, he has the chance to be one of their most influential midfielders, even without Mourinho’s presence.”
Key insights
- Álvarez left West Ham for Fenerbahçe on loan after being left out of Potter’s plans.
- He admitted it was a “very difficult decision” to leave the Premier League.
- Mourinho’s exit came just days after he joined, despite being a key factor in the move.
- Álvarez insists he won’t “cry” about the situation and remains positive.
- The Mexican is awaiting results after picking up an international injury.
What’s next for Álvarez and Fenerbahçe
Fenerbahçe are adjusting under Domenico Tedesco, who will now shape the role Álvarez plays in midfield. For the Mexican, the immediate concern is recovering fitness to secure a place in the starting XI.
For West Ham, his departure marks another reshuffle under Potter, who has been ruthless in redefining his squad. The Hammers will be watching closely to see if Álvarez rebuilds form in Turkey, potentially boosting his value for a permanent deal or return next summer.
👉 Did Edson Álvarez make the right call leaving the Premier League for Fenerbahçe?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 16 Sep 2025 09:02
He might return if Mourinho takes over West Ham...
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