The transfer market is taking an unexpected turn with the possible departure of one of the most promising players from Real Madrid's youth academy. Miguel Gutiérrez, a promising left-back for Vinícius Júnior, is close to joining Manchester United, leaving the Brazilian without his ideal partner.
The Rise of Miguel Gutiérrez
Miguel Gutiérrez joined Real Madrid in 2011, at just 10 years old, starting his career in the youth academy. Over the years, his talent stood out in the lower categories, especially in the Youth League, where he excelled as the team's captain in 2020.
With Real Madrid Castilla, his projection continued. In 2021, he debuted with the first team in La Liga, although opportunities were limited under Carlo Ancelotti's management.
The Move to Girona and His Consolidation
In 2022, Miguel made the decision to move to Girona for about five million euros. Such a move allowed him to get more playing time and continue his growth as a player.
In his second season at Montilivi, Miguel was key to Girona's qualification for the Champions League, with two goals and three assists in 22 matches. His great performance didn't go unnoticed, and speculations about a return to Real Madrid began to surface. However, the Madrid club didn't exercise the buyback option, leaving the door open to other interested clubs.
Manchester United's Interest
According to reports from talkSPORT, Manchester United is willing to sign Miguel Gutiérrez in the next market. With Rubén Amorim as the coach, Manchester United sees Gutiérrez as an offensive full-back, similar to Nuno Mendes at Sporting.
Amorim transformed Mendes into a wing-back and the Portuguese became one of the revelations of the league. Manchester United believes Gutiérrez can be a key piece in its offensive scheme.
Vinícius Júnior and His Lack of an Ideal Partner
The possible departure of Miguel Gutiérrez to Manchester United is a blow for Vinícius Júnior, who had always seen the left-back as a great partner at Real Madrid. Although Gutiérrez never played in the first team, Vinícius had expressed his desire to have him on the left wing.
The understanding between them in training and in the lower categories caused great expectations, and many thought they would form a lethal duo.
An Uncertain Future
With a contract until 2027 and a 35 million clause, Miguel Gutiérrez is key in a transfer battle that could take him away from Madrid. Although Real Madrid still holds a right of first refusal, the door for his return seems closed. Manchester United appears to be his new destination. Gutiérrez's future, and Vinícius Júnior's without his partner, is yet to be written.