For months, in the offices of Santiago Bernabéu, there was talk of Miguel Gutiérrez, and the sports management seriously considered his return. His season at Girona had been brilliant: vertical, solid, with offensive judgment. A modern full-back who fulfilled everything Real Madrid was looking for and needed.
Additionally, he was homegrown, trained at La Fábrica, raised with the white crest and love for the club. A perfect return, both football-wise and emotionally.
But everything fell apart and the plan went awry. Real Madrid, despite having the buyback option, decided not to act, and their number 1 rival was quicker and seized the opportunity.
Real Madrid's Rival Strikes First
Atlético de Madrid moved silently, discreet but effective. While in Chamartín they were still evaluating, the red-and-white club closed a verbal agreement with the footballer. According to Libertad Digital, Miguel Gutiérrez has already given the "yes" to the colchoneros.
For Simeone, it is a key addition. The team needs to strengthen the left-back position, and Miguel offers youth, quality, and experience in LaLiga. A signing with sporting and strategic logic.
Real Madrid watches, while Atleti strengthens their squad and sends a clear message in the city.
From Pride to Disappointment
The reaction in the Madridist environment was swift. From the excitement of his possible return, it quickly turned to disappointment, even a sense of betrayal. How can a homegrown white player end up at the eternal rival?
The answer is simple: soccer has changed. Feelings matter, but professional decisions matter more. Miguel has done nothing but seek his place, he wants to play, grow, feel important, and Atlético gives him that opportunity right now.
But that doesn't prevent the pain. The white fan feels that more than just a footballer is lost, a symbol of what could have been is lost.
Who Loses More?
Now, it's time to look to the future. Atlético gains a young and quality full-back. Simeone adds a piece that fits into his scheme, Miguel has guaranteed minutes and a relevant role.
In contrast, Real Madrid will have to keep looking for solutions for a position that generates doubts. Fran García hasn't fully convinced. Mendy has more shadows than lights, and Miguel was there, within reach.
They let him slip away and not to just any destination. They let him go to the most hated rival.