Edson Alvarez leads young Mexican national team

Mexican national team captain Edson Alvarez was often overlooked because of his size as a child, prompting him to quit soccer for a brief period. Not wanting to quit on his dream, he tried out for Club America’s youth team.

Once he earned a spot on Club America’s youth squad, he blossomed rapidly. Although his commute to Club America’s training facility was only 24 miles, it took Alvarez about three hours to reach his destination because he had no car to get there. 

Alvarez has capitalized on his talent with the help of a tremendous work ethic and determination while becoming one of the best center backs in the world. 

Alvarez’s determination and fighting spirit will surely be needed when he steps on the pitch at NRG Stadium in Houston for Copa America The newly named captain for Mexico’s men’s national soccer team is proud to sport the captain’s armband.

Edson Alvarez accepts ‘big responsibility’

Edson Alvarez will lead El Tri in Mexico’s 11th appearance in Copa America.  The native of Tlalnepantla de Baz, a city nine miles north of Mexico City, is living his childhood dream by representing El Tri on the pitch. 

“It’s a big responsibility,” he said. “It’s an honor to be here. We’re at the brink of an important tournament and I am excited for what’s to come. 

Alvarez, 26, appeared in the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups. He just finished playing 31 games for West Ham United in the English Premier League. However, he is adamant that being named captain for his country’s team has been the best moment of his football career. 

“I am super happy and proud,” he says. “It’s an honor to be captain.”

The 6-foot-2 center back has made 78 appearances for Mexico’s senior national team. Alvarez is the most experienced player on Mexico’s youthful roster for Copa America.  He became the dean of El Tri after longtime goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa was left off the Copa America roster.

Young El Tri

The young captain will rely on knowledge he has garnered in Europe to guide Mexico through Copa America. Alvarez played in the Netherlands for Ajax for five years. He moved to West Ham United last summer.

Alvarez has reflected about his experience in Europe. He hopes that his experience can help his teammates on and off the pitch. He aims to make a difference in any situation that his team may encounter. 

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El Tri is one of the favorites to win from Group B.

“After many years of not participating in this competition it is very important for all of us to return now,” Alvarez said. “We are happy and motivated and we know there are many eyes on this tournament. 

“We are going to compete and leave everything we have until the last minute. The confidence is one 100 percent with all my teammates.”

Modelo partner

Alvarez has also partnered with Modelo to unveil La bota especial, or the special boot. The custom beer mug is a replica of Alvarez’s soccer cleats. Fans have a chance to take home la bota especial by visiting @ModeloUSA and Alvarez’s Instagram account. 

“Modelo is a worldwide brand,” he says. “When my team told me about the possibility of working with Modelo and presented the project to me it was very easy for me to make the decision. 

“Modelo wants to transmit the same thoughts that I have about competing, winning and the fighting spirit.”