Edson Álvarez returns to West Ham starting XI
The Mexican midfielder played 74 minutes in the EFL Cup match against Portsmouth and confirmed his place in the London squad for the new season.
Midfielder Edson Álvarez has made his return to the West Ham starting lineup, featuring in the first round of the EFL Cup against Portsmouth. The Hammers secured a 3-1 victory thanks to a brace from Valentín Castellanos and a goal from Jarrod Bowen, advancing to the next stage of the competition.
Álvarez played approximately 74 minutes, showing promising movement in midfield, although he picked up a yellow card and was close to being sent off. Following a loan spell at Fenerbahce last season, the player's future had been the subject of significant speculation.
Despite reported interest from Ajax, Real Sociedad, and Benfica, West Ham has officially confirmed that Álvarez is part of their plans. The club announced the squad numbers for the 2026-27 season, with the Mexican international assigned the number 4 jersey. He will now look to solidify his place in the team under the current coaching staff.