West Ham to decide on Edson Álvarez surgery amid injury concern

West Ham are facing a key medical decision over Edson Álvarez, with surgery reportedly under consideration during his loan spell at Fenerbahçe.

The Mexico international joined the Turkish side last summer but has endured a frustrating campaign, largely due to recurring fitness issues. Since arriving in Istanbul, Álvarez has missed more than 85 days through injury and managed just 1,125 minutes across 17 appearances in all competitions.

Álvarez has not featured for Fenerbahçe since 2 February 2026 and has made only three appearances in the current calendar year. Reports from Turkey suggested surgery was increasingly likely, and the situation has now drawn attention in Mexico.

TUDN report that both Fenerbahçe’s medical staff and Mexico’s national team are closely monitoring the ankle problem. Journalist Mauricio Ymay claims West Ham, as Álvarez’s parent club, will have the final say on whether surgery proceeds.

If the midfielder goes under the knife, his recovery timeline would be “significantly longer”, raising concerns ahead of upcoming international commitments.

Having followed West Ham’s handling of loan players in recent seasons, the club typically retains tight control over major medical interventions. However, it remains too early to confirm whether surgery will be approved.

The potential impact extends beyond club level. Mexico are reportedly hopeful Álvarez can avoid surgery, as a lengthier rehabilitation would rule him out of the March international break and could cast doubt over his readiness for future tournaments.

Álvarez has been a central figure for Mexico in recent years, and any extended absence would complicate squad planning.

Despite limited minutes in Turkey, Álvarez attracted interest during the winter window. Fenerbahçe sporting director Devin Özek confirmed that several clubs enquired about his situation before closing the door on an exit.

The Turkish side hold a €22m purchase option, though reports suggest that figure may be considered high given his injury record this season.

If the option is not activated, Álvarez will return to West Ham at the end of the campaign, where his long-term future would likely be reassessed.

Medical consultations are expected to determine the final decision on surgery. Should the procedure be approved, Álvarez would face a prolonged spell out, affecting both club and country.

If surgery is avoided, rehabilitation timelines may allow a quicker return, though careful management would be required to prevent recurrence.

Should West Ham prioritise immediate surgery for long-term stability, or back conservative treatment in hope of a faster return?