West Ham and Mexico midfielder Edson Álvarez has categorically denied an accusation that he was involved in an alleged kidnapping.
The accusation was made by movie producer Juan José López Ordóñez, who alleged that he was kidnapped in 2024 by the family of Álvarez's former father-in-law Jonathan Toache Bedolla, and that Álvarez himself was an accomplice.
The Mexico captain at the 2026 World Cup said that he is considering legal action against López Ordóñez.
"In light of the publications and statements that have circulated recently, I believe it is necessary to address this matter clearly and firmly," the midfielder said in a statement posted Thursday on Instagram.
"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."
According to an article published by Mexican magazine TV Notas, López Ordóñez claims to have filmed a documentary about Álvarez's life. He said that the project took him two years to complete, and that he had not yet received the 3.5 million pesos (£153,000/$207,000) he was owed.
The movie producer claimed that he was forced into a vehicle at gunpoint and kidnapped for a day by two people working for Toache Bedolla, the father of Álvarez's wife at the time.
He added that he did not have any direct contact with Álvarez himself but that the West Ham player was aware of the events.
"If anyone believes they have evidence of any wrongdoing on my part, there are authorities, prosecutors, and courts before which they can present it," Álvarez's statement continued.
"Serious accusations must be supported by evidence and presented before the appropriate authorities, not through statements in media outlets whose content prioritizes 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."
