Another weekend, another solid performance by Edson Alvarez but what else happened?
The Good
- For most of the European season, Hirving Lozano was the most talked about Mexican but his injury has dropped him down a peg for the moment. Edson has stepped up and become an important starter for Ajax. Even the Dutch fans are coming around on him after being sour on the transfer. I think the perception that he was coming in to replace Matthijs de Ligt put enormous pressure on him before even playing a game. Another twist in the transfer was his family not joining him in Amsterdam until recently. Their move coincides with his improved play and likely played a factor in settling the player down. This game showed his positional flexibility as he seamlessly stepped in at Center Back and had a good game. It’s a position he has hardly played while at Ajax but one that many think is his best.
- Nestor Araujo made a surprise return for Celta Vigo as he was expected to be out for a week or two. The club is very removed from their struggles last season where they avoided relegation on the last day. They are in the mix for a Europa League this season. Look for Araujo to be starting next weekend in defense.
- Great thread on Gerardo Arteaga. I highly suggest you read it.
The Bad
- As a couple other Europeos return from injury, Jesus Corona seems to have picked one up. He was subbed out at halftime and is in doubt for their Champions League game versus Juventus tomorrow. Tough break as I’m sure a Wednesday game would have better.
QEPD
Hector Herrera missed the Madrid Derby to head back to be with his family as they lost his mother to COVID complications.