A sensational debut for Bayer Leverkusen has the Spanish left-back eyeing a senior international call-up, aiming to fill Alejandro Grimaldo’s shoes for both club and country.
Miguel Gutiérrez could hardly have asked for a better way to introduce himself to Bayer Leverkusen.
The Spanish left-back was one of the outstanding performers in the 2-0 victory over RB Leipzig, contributing an assist for Patrik Schick before scoring Leverkusen's second goal himself. His performance earned him the MOTM award and, more importantly, offered an early indication of why Die Werkself brought him to Germany.
There is another target behind Gutiérrez's strong start, too. The 25-year-old wants to use his time at the German club to push his way into the Spanish senior national team.
That will not be an easy task.
Spain arrive at this stage as reigning world champions, meaning competition for places is particularly intense. Gutiérrez has already represented Spain twice at Under-21 level and now sees the senior team as the next step in his career.
"Of course, the national team is my goal, but it's difficult because they became world champions. I have to keep working and wait for my chance."
His performance against Leipzig was certainly the kind of display that can strengthen a player's case.
The assist for Schick was arguably the highlight. Gutiérrez delivered a dangerous cross that allowed the striker to open the scoring, before later getting on the scoresheet himself with a left-footed finish. His contribution was not limited to the attacking side of the game, however.
Coach Carles Martínez also highlighted Gutiérrez's understanding of when to stay wide and when to move inside, praising the way he created problems for Leipzig from different positions. That tactical flexibility has quickly become an important feature of his game.
It is particularly relevant given the position he has inherited at Leverkusen.
Gutiérrez arrived at the club following Alejandro Grimaldo's move to Atlético Madrid. Grimaldo had established himself as one of Bayer's most important players at left-back, while also becoming a regular presence for Spain. Gutiérrez is now attempting to fill the vacancy at club level while potentially challenging his predecessor for a place with the national team.
For now, the focus remains on establishing himself at Leverkusen.
Gutiérrez has spoken positively about the environment since arriving from Napoli at the beginning of the season. He has also found a squad containing several Spanish-speaking players, making the transition into a new league considerably more comfortable.
"I am very, very happy here. And with so many strong players, it is very easy to play."
That comfort was evident against Leipzig. Gutiérrez looked confident going forward, combined effectively with his teammates and showed enough defensive discipline to satisfy his coach.
The timing also gives him an opportunity to develop away from the immediate pressure of international football. While Spain continues their work during the international break, Gutiérrez remains in Leverkusen, where he can focus on training and adapting further to his new surroundings.
A few strong performances will not be enough to force his way into a World Cup-winning squad. But it has established an early reference point.
Gutiérrez has arrived at Leverkusen with a clear objective: to become one of the Bundesliga's leading full-backs and make himself impossible for Spain to ignore.
