In an ultimate attempt to get Edson Álvarez to Stade Rennes, the wealthy owner of the French club has engaged his Mexican wife, according to an interview by the midfielder in The Telegraph. Álvarez was strongly associated with a transfer to Rennes, but preferred a longer stay at Ajax. The defensive midfielder says he is honored by the message from his compatriot.
Álvarez had to be changed by Salma Hayek, a Mexican-American actress who is married to François Pinault, owner of Rennes. The midfielder of Ajax received messages via WhatsApp and was called by the woman, but gave her zero on the claim. “Yes, that’s right,” says Álvarez when asked if he was approached by the Mexican-American. “She called me as a well-known Mexican compatriot and tried to persuade me to come to France. That surprised and flattered me, but my choice for Ajax was certain and I explained that to her.”
According to Álvarez, Hayek is a celebrity. “Not just in Mexico!” he continues. “She is a very big and famous actress all over the world because of her Hollywood films, an immense star. I hold her very highly. She is an example because she fought as a Mexican to get to where she is today.” Hayek starred in more than thirty Hollywood films. Her father is from Lebanon, her mother from Mexico. The actress married Pinault in 2009 and did it again in April 2009. Together they have one daughter.
Álvarez tells in the interview with the above-mentioned newspaper that Ajax in Mexico is mainly known for its history with players such as Johan Cruijff, Marco van Basten and Patrick Kluivert. “They see Ajax as one of the biggest clubs in Europe. Due to the presence of Héctor Moreno and Andrés Guardado, many Mexicans used to watch PSV, but the current generation grows up looking at Ajax. The performances in the Champions League ensure great respect But I think the whole world was pleasantly surprised by our game against Borussia Dortmund.”
According to the Ajax midfielder, it was difficult to resist Rennes’ call. “That was very difficult, but in the end I had no doubts,” says Álvarez about his decision to stay longer in Amsterdam. “I want to play in the Champions League, against very big teams. And before this season I was only a real basic player for six months. That is too short to leave an indelible impression here. I still have a lot to prove.”