Felipe Alejandro Gutiérrez Leiva began his professional career on 7 November 2009, debuting for Universidad Católica at age eighteen in a 4–1 victory against Universidad de Concepción. A product of the Everton de Viña del Mar youth system, he transitioned into a significant midfield presence, ultimately securing league titles and pursuing a multi-national career as both player and manager.
Early Success and Chilean Tenure
Gutiérrez established himself at Universidad Católica, where he scored his first league goal in July 2010 during a win against O'Higgins. Throughout the 2011 season, his impact included key goals against Colo-Colo and Universidad de Chile. He earned the "revelation of the season" title from the Chilean edition of El Gráfico magazine, reflecting his influence as the club won the Chilean Cup and competed for the championship title.
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In June 2012, Gutiérrez transferred to the Eredivisie club FC Twente for a fee estimated between $3.5 and 4 million. He debuted in the Europa League against FK Mladá Boleslav. By the 2013–14 season, he solidified his position, scoring three times in thirty-three matches. His performance earned him recognition from Algemeen Dagblad, which named him a favourite for the Most Valuable Player award in the Eredivisie, an accolade he eventually secured.
Injury Challenges and European Stints
Following the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Gutiérrez faced significant physical setbacks, including a persistent knee injury that required surgery in Spain. After returning to the field, he was appointed captain at FC Twente in January 2016. Later that year, he signed a four-year contract with Real Betis, marking his entry into La Liga. His tenure in Spain saw him score once in a 2–1 win against Osasuna before injury interruptions affected his playing time.
Managerial Shift
Beyond his tenure as a midfielder, which included spells with S.C. Internacional and Major League Soccer teams, Gutiérrez transitioned into coaching. He currently serves as the manager of Deportes La Serena, applying his extensive experience from his playing years in Chile, the Netherlands, and Spain to his leadership role within the organization.
Fast facts
- Born: 8 October 1990, Quintero, Chile
- Professional Debut: 7 November 2009
- Primary Position: Midfielder
- Former Club: FC Twente (2012–2016)
- Former Club: Real Betis (2016–2018)
- Former Club: S.C. Internacional (2017)
- Tournament Appearance: 2014 FIFA World Cup
- Current Role: Manager, Deportes La Serena
Questions readers ask
Which major award did Gutiérrez win in the Eredivisie?
He was named the Most Valuable Player of the Eredivisie for his performance during the 2013–14 season.
What was his initial professional club?
He debuted professionally for Universidad Católica in 2009.
