Liga MX

Rayados’ new boss wants to bring a major Mexico star back from Europe

Monterrey’s new head coach, Matías Almeyda, has reportedly turned his attentions to the Old Continent as he seeks to strengthen his team.

Monterrey’s new head coach, Matías Almeyda, has reportedly turned his attentions to the Old Continent as he seeks to strengthen his team.
Carlos Ramirez

Monterrey’s roster overhaul ahead of the Apertura 2026 appears to have had a clear target from day one: Edson Álvarez. The Mexican midfielder and national team captain has emerged as the top candidate to bolster the Liga MX side, following a direct request from newly appointed head coach Matías Almeyda.

The news surfaced during the broadcast of Mexico’s World Cup warm-up against Ghana, which saw El Tri secure a 2-0 win over the African side. During the coverage on TUDN, journalist David Faitelson reported that Álvarez is firmly on Monterrey’s radar to spearhead the club’s new sporting project.

A player with proven pedigree

The 28-year-old entered the match in the second half wearing the No. 4 jersey and once again showcased his leadership on the field. Meanwhile, in northern Mexico, the Monterrey front office began making strategic moves in an effort to pull off what would be one of the most high-profile signings of the upcoming transfer window.

At present, the defensive midfielder is on loan with Turkish team Fenerbahçe, although his registration rights still belong to West Ham United. The loan deal is set to expire at the end of June, at which point he is expected to report back to the Premier League club, with whom he remains under contract through the summer of 2028.

During the most recent season, the former Ajax standout made 18 appearances, logging 1,126 minutes and recording one assist. While those numbers may not jump off the page, his European pedigree and standing within the Mexican national team make him an appealing asset for any club in Liga MX.

A new chapter begins at Rayados

Almeyda’s arrival signals the start of a new era for Monterrey. The Argentine manager was formally introduced this week alongside Deniss te Kloese, who has taken on the role of the club’s sporting president. Together, they are leading the overhaul of the Rayados project, with ambitions of restoring the club’s prominence both domestically in Liga MX and on the international stage.

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