From SI FC
Legendary Midfielder Threatens Edson Alvarez’s Playing Time
If Álvarez’s injury wasn’t enough adversity, he could also find it incredibly difficult to get consistent playing time once he’s back to full fitness given Fenerbahçe recently completed the transfer of legendary French midfielder N’Golo Kanté.
Even before the ankle injury, Álvarez wasn’t an undisputed starter. Now, he’ll have to fight for playing time against one of if not the best defensive midfielder of the past decade.
Former Premier League midfielders Fred and Mattéo Guendouzi are regular starters in Fenerbahçe’s 4-2-3-1 system, with Marco Asensio often operating in the No. 10 role. Kanté’s arrival only further congests the midfield, and even when healthy, Álvarez could be the odd-man out.
"Players must be healthy and playing regularly,” Aguirre said last month when asked what El Tri hopefuls must do to be considered for the 2026 World Cup roster. At this point in time, Mexico’s captain fails to meet either criteria.
If Álvarez overcomes his injury before the World Cup, then it’s hard to envision him not making El Tri’s squad. But if his struggles continue and he arrives to the tournament having barely played since the start of the year, then his spot in Mexico’s lineup against South Africa in the opening game of the competition is far from guaranteed.