Photo: Amanda Cortese
CHICAGO, IL–Chicago Fire FC homegrown Brian Gutierrez has transferred to Liga MX side CD Chivas de Guadalajara for a multi-million dollar transfer fee.Additionally, in the event that Chivas permanently transfers Gutiérrez, the Fire will retain a percentage of any future transfer fee.
The agreement with Chivas marks the third multi-million-dollar agreement for the transfer of a player aged of 22 or younger in the past three years for the Fire. Homegrown goalkeeper Gabriel “Gaga” Slonina was transferred to Chelsea FC in 2022, and Colombian forward Jhon Duran joined him in the Premier League at Aston Villa in 2023. Slonina is still at Chelsea, though recovering from an injury while Duran moved to Al-Nassr of the Saudi Premier League.
“It has been a privilege to play for my hometown Club and represent all the kids who grew up playing in the parks around Chicago. I would like to thank all of my teammates, coaches and all the staff from the Academy through the first team who helped a kid from Chicago live his dream,” said Gutiérrez. “I would also like to thank my family for their unconditional support over the years, as well as all the fans who have supported us in the good and tough times. I will keep representing Chicago everywhere I go, and Chicago will always be home.”
Gutiérrez was one of five Homegrown Players promoted from the Chicago Fire Academy at the start of the 2020 MLS season, signing his first professional contract at 16 years old. Prior to signing a first team contract as a Homegrown Player, Gutiérrez was a standout player in the Chicago Fire Academy since 2015. During his time in the Academy, Gutiérrez played in 79 matches, tallied 28 goals and registered 39 assists. This past season was his best with the Fire scoring nine goals and six assists in a year that the Fire ended their playoff drought.
“Brian has demonstrated consistent growth and commitment to our Club for 11 years. His year-over-year progression has culminated in a career-best season, and we are proud of his achievements,” said Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. “As he takes the next step in his journey, we have full confidence that he will continue to elevate his game and make an even greater impact in the years ahead.”
Source: Chicago Fire FC Communications
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