“Shocking” – Perry Groves Slams West Ham Star’s Action at Half-Time Against Man City
Perry Groves Urges Julen Lopetegui to Substitute Edson Alvarez Early in West Ham's Match Against Manchester City
On January 4th, during a live appearance on talkSPORT 2, Groves sharply criticized West Ham midfielder Edson Álvarez for his poor defending, which led to Manchester City’s opening goal.
Álvarez was accused of “ducking” out of an aerial challenge to clear the ball, allowing Savinho’s cross to deflect off Vladimir Coufal and find the back of the net.
Groves expressed his disappointment with Álvarez’s lack of bravery, claiming that such players don’t belong in tough situations.
He blasted the Mexican player for turning his back in the 18-yard box and not being courageous enough to make the clearance, saying, “That is shocking defending from Álvarez – he’s gone like a tortoise neck, right into his shoulders.
He’s turned his back in his own 18-yard box, not brave enough.”
He added that the deflection gave goalkeeper Areola no chance to stop the goal.
Groves emphasized that Manchester City’s goal came against the run of play but noted that Álvarez’s mistake was significant.
He further suggested that, had he been in charge, he would have substituted Álvarez immediately, stating, “If I was Julen Lopetegui, I’d be taking Edson Álvarez off – it is that bad.”
Álvarez, while showing flashes of talent, has struggled this season, failing to live up to expectations since joining from Ajax in 2023.
His inconsistency has frustrated manager Julen Lopetegui, who has shown diminishing faith in the 83-cap Mexican international, substituting him at half-time during a heavy 5-0 defeat to Liverpool and leaving him out of the starting lineup for a match against Southampton.
Despite playing regularly under David Moyes last season, Álvarez’s performances have mirrored those of his teammates – underwhelming and inconsistent.
His disciplinary issues, including two red cards this campaign, have only added to his struggles.
With Lopetegui’s job on the line, the manager cannot afford players who shy away from physical duels and aerial challenges, as such performances are simply not acceptable.
