Guido Rodríguez lands at Valencia: "This is a very big club"
The Argentine midfielder arrives from West Ham to bolster Valencia's squad, with Carlos Corberán's influence key to securing the short-term deal.
Valencia’s winter transfer window continues with their third signing as Guido Rodríguez touched down in the city Sunday evening, ready to begin his new Spanish adventure.
The 31-year-old Argentine midfielder arrived at Manises airport brimming with enthusiasm about joining Los Che after terminating his contract with West Ham United.
Quick Deal
The transfer accelerated rapidly in recent days after a period of uncertainty, with Rodríguez himself pushing for the move:
“I’m coming to contribute. I’m eager to meet the group and my teammates,” he declared upon arrival, adding that Valencia is “a very big club that has achieved many things.”
The deal was finally unblocked on Friday, with both the player’s persistence and Corberán’s determination proving decisive factors. While the transfer fee remains undisclosed, sources suggest it was relatively modest given Rodríguez wasn’t in Nuno Espírito Santo’s plans at West Ham despite having a contract until 2026.
Short-Term Arrangement
After completing his medical on Monday, Rodríguez will sign a contract binding him to Valencia only until the end of the current season. When asked about the short duration, he explained:
“That’s how operations work. We’re thankful it could happen at all. Everyone was pushing from their position, and the important thing is I’m here now.”
The brevity of the deal makes sense for both parties - Valencia get immediate midfield reinforcement while Rodríguez secures the playing time he needs to potentially earn a World Cup call-up.
LaLiga Experience
Corberán has been adamant about strengthening Valencia’s midfield with someone who can make an immediate impact, and Rodríguez fits the bill perfectly after his four-and-a-half seasons at Real Betis, where he was an undisputed starter.
In a twist of fate, his Valencia debut could come against his former club, as Los Che face Betis in their next LaLiga fixture on Sunday - a fact not lost on the player: “I saw the schedule, obviously. It’s going to be something very special for me.”
For Valencia, this Adam’s apple of a signing could be just what they need to shore up their midfield as they look to climb the table in the second half of the season.