Miguel Gutiérrez and a "laboratory" evolution: nutrition, glasses to sleep better… And the buyback of Madrid

SPORTS / By Carmen Gomaro

Miguel Gutiérrez (Madrid, 2001) left Valdebebas after Real Madrid became European champions. It was the summer of 2022 and Marcelo had just announced that he was leaving the club. The young player could have chosen to stay under the shadow of Ferland Mendy, but instead, he decided to pursue challenges and personal growth. And it has paid off. Two years later, Miguel is now recognized as the best left back of the season, and discussions have already begun about his potential return to Real Madrid.

A native of Madrid, Miguel joined La Fábrica at the tender age of 10, where he blossomed into a remarkable footballer under the guidance of Míchel. Those who know him well have described him as having both the maturity and mentality of a professional. He currently holds several impressive titles in La Liga, such as the left back with the most minutes played (1,952), the highest number of successful dribbles, the second-highest number of assists (3) after Diego Rico (5), and the fourth-highest average score. He has even managed to score a goal. As he returns to Chamartín this afternoon, all eyes will be on him.

Girona heavily relies on Miguel’s contribution to their style of play. Although he is primarily a left back, he poses a constant threat to the opposing team’s defense when pushing forward as an attacking midfielder. He has become an integral part of Girona’s offensive tactics, which instills fear throughout the league. Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s coach, recently praised Miguel’s progress during his loan stint in Girona, stating that it has been a beneficial experience for him.

The truth is, Miguel’s potential has always been recognized at Real Madrid’s Valdebebas training ground. He won the Youth Champions League alongside Raúl, and he showcased his talent while playing for Castilla, coming close to achieving promotion to the second division. He made his debut under Zinedine Zidane and received consistent playing time due to injuries suffered by Mendy and Marcelo. However, he understood that he needed to take a step back from Madrid in order to progress and eventually return. And that’s precisely what he’s done.

According to those close to him, Girona has provided Miguel with an ideal environment to grow, offering a playing philosophy that perfectly suits his style. In addition to his development as a footballer, the 22-year-old has learned the importance of professional habits that elevate athletes to the highest level, such as focusing on nutrition and quality sleep.

Miguel’s footballing breakthrough only required more playing time because his talent, as Valdebebas insiders affirm, has always been evident. However, he has made significant strides in terms of physical development through the use of technology. He has taken his nutrition to the next level by carefully monitoring his diet, and he utilizes various technological tools to enhance his sleep and ensure he maintains the lifestyle of a professional footballer throughout the day. Those close to him joke that his home is almost like a laboratory, with sensors controlling the lighting at various times and him using relaxation glasses to prepare for bedtime.

While his return to Bernabéu has sparked speculation about his future, both Miguel and his entourage, along with Girona and Real Madrid, prefer to focus on the ongoing fight in the league before addressing it in the summer. Several elite clubs, including Bayern, Chelsea, and Tottenham, have already expressed interest in the player during the January transfer window. Yet, Miguel was very clear about his intentions: he wants to finish the season with Girona and prioritize a return to Real Madrid. The latter still holds 50% of his rights as a left back and has the option to buy him back for 5 million euros. All parties involved are optimistic that this will come to fruition, despite Real Madrid’s interest in Alphonso Davies, Bayern’s star full-back. The futures of Mendy and Fran García are also up for discussion.