Edson Alvarez intends to introduce a "refreshing mindset" to West Ham as he kicks off his tenure at the London Stadium on a winning note. The arrival of the Mexican international marked West Ham's first signing of the summer transfer window, coinciding with the departure of captain Declan Rice to Arsenal for a staggering £105m.
Since then, the Hammers have seen the addition of midfielder James Ward-Prowse, defender Konstantinos Mavropanos, and forward Mohammed Kudus, resulting in an unbeaten start to the Premier League season.
Luton Town
West Ham United
Friday 1st September 7:00pm
Kick off 8:00pm
Alvarez and Ward-Prowse have been outstanding in midfield for West Ham, contributing to their impressive wins over Chelsea and Brighton. Under David Moyes, the team currently sits second in the table, having earned seven points from their first three matches.
In preparation for his team's upcoming game against Luton on Friday Night Football, the ex-Ajax midfielder is determined to secure a long-term position near the top of the table alongside his new squad. Additionally, he has expressed admiration for his fruitful partnership with Ward-Prowse.
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West Ham sit second after an unbeaten start to the season
"It's a fantastic beginning for everyone, particularly for me as I achieved a dream debut in our home stadium, surrounded by our passionate fans, against the formidable Chelsea team," Alvarez disclosed exclusively to We.
"Additionally, the second match away against Brighton has historically posed significant challenges for us, but we managed to secure all three points. As of now, I am genuinely delighted and immensely grateful for everything."
"We have excellent communication with James Ward-Prowse," he remarked. "As newcomers, we strive to instill a rejuvenated mindset within the club.
"All my new teammates are fantastic individuals. They have tirelessly assisted me since my very first day of joining the club."
"I am thrilled with everyone and eager to form the strongest team possible for West Ham. Ultimately, we are all determined to compete for our supporters and secure top positions in the Premier League.
Triumph breeds confidence; it is a gratifying sensation. Notably, achieving two victories over formidable opponents adds an extra dose of motivation."
We are committed to looking ahead, as our goal is not just to achieve short-term success or enjoy a temporary position at the top. We aim to sustain this positive momentum for numerous upcoming games.
My intention is to consistently strive for excellence, and I firmly believe that success is a culmination of dedicated effort over time. By training with the same intensity as we play, we will undoubtedly achieve favorable outcomes.
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Alvarez is relishing the physical battle in the Premier League
Alvarez's debut for West Ham came as a substitute against Chelsea, where he played a crucial role in their 3-1 victory over their London rivals. He followed it up with an impressive performance in his first start against Brighton, displaying his exceptional work-rate, tackling skills, and physical presence.
Teammate Emerson Palmieri has described him as an "animal," while former Hammers defender Anton Ferdinand labeled him a "machine." Despite the transition from the Eredivisie to the Premier League, the 25-year-old enthusiastically embraces the challenges and continues to adapt to his new environment.
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Alvarez's Premier League statistics thus far.
When questioned about whether his game is compatible with the Premier League, Alvarez responded, "It is too early to definitively determine if the Premier League is a good fit for me, but I will strive to achieve peak physical fitness."
Having come from Ajax, one of the biggest schools in the world, I have noticed significant contrasts between the Eredivisie and the Premier League.
Despite the disparities, I have observed similarities in terms of the intensity with the ball. Additionally, West Ham boasts a plethora of talented players.
The distinction lies in the level of intensity and the requirement of continuously running for a duration of 90 minutes, failing which one is deemed unsuccessful. Moreover, the teams competing in the Premier League exhibit a tenacious spirit till the very last moment.
Personally, I am particularly fond of the test posed by the Premier League, as it aligns well with my preferences and abilities.
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Alvarez has already showcased his defensive prowess in just two outings.
"There are formidable individuals in the league," he remarked. "I embrace the challenge. It compels me to continually strive and prepare myself, as competing at my best is paramount."
"I want to show what I can do and also learn. There are many good players in this league but I want to show I can be there too."
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Alvarez has already felt a connection with the West Ham fans
Alvarez relishing Premier League challenge
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Mohammed Kudus joined West Ham from Ajax earlier this week
Alvarez, who has been joined by Kudus at West Ham from the Ajax school, shows evident excitement when discussing the recent arrival of his former teammate, the Ghana international, who recently joined the Hammers.
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Alvarez is thrilled to reunite with Mohammed Kudus at West Ham. He expressed his excitement, stating, "I'm absolutely delighted that he's here. I'm eagerly anticipating our training sessions and playing alongside him once more. I'm counting down the days until we can connect on the field again."
"I know what he can bring to the team and what he can show in England. He's a very talented player and a very good guy.
"The fans can expect big things [from Kudus]," he added.
I’m new too so I still need to learn a lot of things, but we can help each other.
Edson Alvarez commented on Mohammed Kudus joining West Ham, praising his exceptional ball skills, strength, and agility. Alvarez noted Kudus' affinity for the game and his ability to seamlessly adapt to different situations. Moreover, Alvarez praised Kudus' proficiency in executing combinations and his deep understanding of football.
'The fans can expect big things from Kudus'
I encountered him once more on Tuesday, and he is eager to commence and demonstrate his abilities in the top league. Undoubtedly, similar to me, it is crucial for him to acclimate to the Premier League; however, I have no doubt he will quickly adapt.Image:
West Ham United's match against Luton Town will be broadcasted live on FNF on We. Kudus may potentially play a role in the game, as West Ham aims to maintain their undefeated record in the Premier League. This will be the first time a team travels to Kenilworth Road to face the newly-promoted Luton.
After a £10m transformation program, the stadium is now ready to host its first-ever Premier League game. The Hammers will be visiting on Friday Night Football. Luton's campaign began with back-to-back losses against Brighton and Chelsea due to stadium improvement works, which forced them to play away. However, their first home match of the season at Kenilworth Road is expected to be a significant and exciting event, and Alvarez and West Ham are fully prepared for it.
Luton's first Premier League match at their Bedfordshire home against Burnley was originally planned, but now the Irons will be etched into Hatters history instead.
Alvarez acknowledged the significance of the stadium but expressed the team's determination to demonstrate their capabilities.
"We need to stick together as a team in what will be a difficult atmosphere and if we do that we can have a good result.
"You need to go there and fight, and you can get the three points."
Watch Luton Town vs West Ham United live on We Premier League from 7pm on Friday Night Football; kick-off 8pm.