Napoli Strengthens Defense with Miguel Gutiérrez Signing

Naples, Italy, Aug 20 (AP) – In a strategic move, Italian champions Napoli have bolstered their squad by securing the services of defender Miguel Gutiérrez from Girona. The transfer, announced on Tuesday, marks another significant departure for Girona following their extraordinary third-place finish in the 2024 Spanish league season.

Napoli opted not to disclose the transfer fee for the talented 24-year-old left-back. However, reports suggest Gutiérrez has committed to the club on a lucrative five-year contract, valued at 18 million euros (approximately $21 million).

Gutiérrez's football journey began in the youth ranks of Real Madrid, where he honed his skills before making a name for himself at Girona. During the club's remarkable run two seasons ago, Girona maintained an impressive lead in La Liga as late as January. Ultimately, Real Madrid clinched the title with Barcelona finishing as runners-up.

The promising left-back also contributed significantly to Girona's European campaign, featuring in six Champions League matches last season. Notably, he found the back of the net in a crucial win against Slovan Bratislava during the league phase.

Adding to his growing list of accomplishments, Gutiérrez was a vital part of the Spanish national team that captured Olympic gold in the men's soccer tournament at the Paris Games last year.

Despite their earlier successes, Girona faced challenges last season, ultimately securing a precarious 16th-place finish in La Liga, just a point and two spots shy of relegation. The club saw the departure of loan player Savinho, who returned to his parent club Manchester City, while their top scorer Artem Dovbyk was transferred to Roma.

(AP)

AM

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