José Mourinho once picked up the phone to ask a simple question about Edson Álvarez. The answer helped shape a transfer that quickly became one of the more unusual moves of the 2025 summer window.
Mexico manager Javier Aguirre has revealed that Mourinho personally contacted him before Fenerbahçe signed the West Ham United midfielder on loan in August 2025. According to comments relayed by Record in Mexico, the Portuguese coach wanted first-hand insight into the player before approving the deal.
Álvarez eventually joined the Turkish side on a season-long loan from West Ham with an option to buy. The timing, however, proved remarkable, as Mourinho left Fenerbahçe only days after the Mexican international arrived in Istanbul.
Mourinho sought advice before Edson Álvarez transfer
Speaking in an interview with journalist Jorge van Rankin, Aguirre explained how the conversation unfolded and why he encouraged Mourinho to proceed with the signing.
The Mexico manager has worked closely with Álvarez since taking charge of the national team for the third time in July 2024. He quickly appointed the midfielder as captain and has relied on him regularly when available for selection.
Because of that relationship, Mourinho turned directly to Aguirre for a detailed assessment.
“Mourinho calls me on the phone. He says: ‘Javier, they’re offering me Edson, you know him from the national team. What position does he play?’ I explained how he plays and he asked if he could compete. I told him: perfectly fine, take him.” — Javier Aguirre, via Record
Aguirre also revealed that Álvarez later thanked him after discovering the conversation had taken place.
According to the Mexico boss, the situation took an unexpected turn shortly after the transfer was completed.
“Then Edson calls me and says: ‘Thanks, Mou told me he spoke with you.’ They sign Álvarez and after one match, they fire Mourinho.” — Javier Aguirre
Mourinho’s exit came only days after Álvarez’s arrival. The Portuguese manager returned to management a month later when Benfica appointed him in September 2025.
Edson Álvarez season at Fenerbahçe so far
Álvarez has featured regularly during his loan spell in Turkey, though injuries have recently interrupted his campaign.
| Stat (2025/26) | Edson Álvarez |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 17 |
| Minutes played | 1,125 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88% |
source: sofascore match data – 7 March 2026
The midfielder recently underwent surgery, although there remains optimism he can return to full fitness ahead of the upcoming international schedule later this year.
Having followed West Ham closely this season, Álvarez’s situation remains one of the more uncertain loan arrangements involving the Premier League club.
Key Insights
- José Mourinho personally contacted Mexico manager Javier Aguirre before signing Edson Álvarez.
- The midfielder joined Fenerbahçe on loan from West Ham in August 2025.
- Mourinho left the Turkish club only days after Álvarez’s arrival.
- Álvarez has played over 1,100 minutes this season despite recent injury setbacks.
- Fenerbahçe reportedly hold a €22m option to buy the midfielder.
What’s Next
Álvarez’s immediate focus is recovery following surgery, with the expectation that he could regain fitness in time for upcoming international duties with Mexico. Much will depend on how quickly he can return to full training during the final months of the season.
Meanwhile, Fenerbahçe must decide whether to activate the €22 million purchase option included in the loan agreement with West Ham. Reports from Turkey suggest the current valuation may be considered too high, meaning discussions between the clubs could take place once the campaign concludes.
Should West Ham reintegrate Edson Álvarez next season, or could another transfer move be on the horizon?
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