Mexico captain Edson Alvarez says he “categorically rejects” allegations of his involvement in an alleged kidnapping plot.
Filmmaker Juan Jose Lopez Ordonez has accused the West Ham United midfielder of conspiring to kidnap him in Mexico in November 2024. Ordonez alleges he was kidnapped by two people who threatened him, blindfolded him, had weapons and inserted a syringe into his neck.
Ordonez alleges he is owed 3.5million pesos ($206,000, £152,500) by Alvarez after working with the Mexico international on a documentary. The film producer claims he initially asked for payment in 2024 and was also in conflict with Alvarez’s family over a property he says he owned. He made the allegations in an interview with Mexican news outlet TVNotas.
Alvarez strongly denies the allegations and says his team will take legal action against anyone making “false allegations” against him.
The 28-year-old posted a statement on Instagram, which read: “In light of the publications and statements that have circulated recently, I believe it is necessary to address this matter clearly and firmly. I categorically reject any allegation or attempt to associate my name with events, conflicts, or conduct that are entirely unrelated to me.
“Over the past several months, my name and image have repeatedly been used to generate greater media attention around a situation that has nothing to do with me. Until now, I had chosen not to respond. However, there are limits, and attributing knowledge, responsibility, or involvement in matters of this nature to me without presenting a single piece of evidence clearly crosses that line.
“If anyone believes they have evidence of any wrongdoing on my part, there are authorities, prosecutors, and courts before which they can present it. Serious accusations must be supported by evidence and presented before the appropriate authorities, not through statements in media outlets whose content prioritises sensationalism and media exposure over accuracy and truth. I will not allow my name to be used to fuel conflicts between third parties or to gain media exposure.
“Therefore, given the seriousness of the statements that have been made, I have instructed my legal team to evaluate and pursue the appropriate legal action against any person who makes or disseminates false allegations against me. I also want to be clear regarding the publications that have attempted to connect me to this matter through my former partner’s father: It is not my place to confirm, deny, or comment on what may be said about third parties, but it is my responsibility to make one thing absolutely clear: I have nothing to do with the events being reported.”
Alvarez joined West Ham from Dutch side Ajax for €40million (£34.4m) in August 2023. In his three-year spell, he has scored twice and registered three assists across 74 appearances. Alvarez spent last season on loan at Turkish side Fenerbahce, having fallen out with ex-manager Graham Potter, who was replaced by Nuno Espirito Santo in September 2025.
Alvarez was expected to leave in the summer transfer window, but was unable to seal an exit. His last appearance for West Ham was during their first-round Carabao Cup victory against Portsmouth last month.
He has made 102 appearances for Mexico since his senior debut in 2017 and was part of the squad at the 2026 World Cup. Alvarez made four appearances at the tournament as Mexico reached the last 16, captaining the side when starting.