Conte's Masterstroke: Miguel Gutiérrez Reinvented as Napoli's Right-Wing Wonder
Former Real Madrid and Girona left-back Miguel Gutiérrez is thriving in an unfamiliar right-wing role under Antonio Conte at Napoli, scoring a stunning goal against Fiorentina.
Antonio Conte has pulled another tactical rabbit from his hat, transforming Miguel Gutiérrez into Napoli’s secret weapon on the right flank as they continue their Scudetto defence despite an injury crisis.
From Madrid to Napoli via the left wing
The Spanish defender, who came through Real Madrid’s youth system before making his name at Girona, has been a revelation since Conte deployed him in an unfamiliar right-sided role. The 23-year-old had previously established himself as a left-back or left wing-back, but Napoli’s injury woes forced Conte’s hand into this positional experiment.
Gutiérrez himself admitted: “Never had I played on the right before, but I’m playing there now and need to stay ready because we’re short-staffed at the moment.”
Bale-esque brilliance
The tactical gamble paid spectacular dividends against Fiorentina in Napoli’s crucial 2-1 victory. Gutiérrez sealed the win with an absolute pearler that would have had Gareth Bale nodding in approval:
- Received the ball wide on the right flank
- Cut inside, leaving Gosens for dead
- Unleashed a left-footed thunderbolt into the far corner past De Gea
He immediately sprinted to celebrate with Conte, the architect of his positional transformation.
Stats don’t lie
Against Fiorentina, the Spaniard was absolutely mustard, putting in a complete performance:
- Most long passes by any outfield player (7)
- Second-best crosser in the match (3)
- 87% passing accuracy (46/53)
- 6 duels won defensively
Conte’s new Swiss Army knife
With injuries to key players like Kevin De Bruyne, Politano, Neres, Zambo Anguissa, Rrahmani and Gilmour, Conte has found his utility man. Gutiérrez has already shown versatility under Michel at Girona, occasionally playing in midfield, but this right-sided role is something entirely new.
“We’re talking about a serious player; he’s never played on the right… This goal gives him even more confidence. We’re happy because we’ve signed a quality player,” Conte remarked about his latest tactical masterstroke.
For Gutiérrez, working under the Italian tactician represents a significant career opportunity: “Personally, I can learn so much from him because he’s a type of coach I’ve never had before. He can help me take further steps in my career.”
As Napoli chase another Scudetto, they’ve found an unexpected hero in a familiar face playing in an unfamiliar position.