BVB Buzz
Fansided

Player Analysis: What would Edson Álvarez bring to Borussia Dortmund?

By Brian Szlenk Straub

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - MAY 6: Edson Alvarez of Ajax chases the ball during the Eredivisie match between Ajax and AZ at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on May 6, 2023 in Amsterdam, Netherlands (Photo by Patrick Goosen/Orange Pictures/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - MAY 6: Edson Alvarez of Ajax chases the ball during the Eredivisie match between Ajax and AZ at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on May 6, 2023 in Amsterdam, Netherlands (Photo by Patrick Goosen/Orange Pictures/BSR Agency/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 3
Next
Edson Álvarez is Ajax's chief midfield disruptor
Edson Álvarez is Ajax’s chief midfield disruptor (Photo by Peter Lous/BSR Agency/Getty Images) /

Edson Àlvarez: A key disruptor in midfield for Ajax

The Mexican international, while not an exact replacement for any of the departing faces mentioned, would be set to become part of a new-look Borussia Dortmund midfield. As a player, Edson Àlvarez can either play as a defensive midfielder or a centre-back, having plied his trade in both positions for the former Dutch champions. He has a very physical presence and is often one of the most committed runners for his side.

Defensively, Àlvarez excels in terms of clearances (2.68 per 90) and aerial duels won (3.46 per 90). His actions both on and off the ball are often heavily disruptive for the opposition, and he has a keen ability to intercept the ball for his side.

Àlvarez’s stats also show an ability to turn defence into attack, despite his more defensive positioning and role. The Mexican international has a pass success rate of 88.4%, which on its own shows that he is rather secure when it possession of the ball.

What ends up being striking is is progressive passing. Àlvarez has, on average, 7.54 progressive passes per 90 and 2.6 progressive carries per 90, and while he doesn’t often receive the ball in attacking positions, he can certainly propel his team forward. He also has a good range in terms of his passing, which means that while he might not directly be involved in the attacking play, his passes may help in unlocking a defence and starting a menacing move for his side.