Real Madrid: Grading every fullback from the 2020-2021 season

LB Miguel Gutierrez

Next up on the list is Miguel Gutierrez. Even though he only made three starts this season, the Castilla product has quickly established himself as a key rotational piece for the 2021-2022 season and could make a further climb up the roster. Gutierrez is just 19, but he looks like a special player at the left back position already and someone who can be a future star for Real.

In his first start of the season, Real Madrid defeated Granada 4-1 at Los Carmenes, producing their most free-flowing attacking football during the treacherous title race. And it was Gutierrez who provided arguably the most magical moment of the match, scooping the ball over the defense for Luka Modric, giving Real a 1-0 lead.

Gutierrez played well against Athletic Club at San Mames and was one of the only starters who tried to progress the ball in a poor start to the match vs. Villarreal. Whether it was his three appearances off the bench or his three starts, Gutierrez didn’t have a single bad game for Real Madrid, and that’s hugely impressive.

It’s a small sample size, but Gutierrez looks like a competent defender who is very composed on the ball, make smart movements, and has the acceleration and creativity to make things happen in the final third. And these are all traits Real Madrid need at the left back position.

Rating: 7.0