Erick Gutiérrez's experience and leadership were key to Chivas' victory over América. | OneFootball

His footballing ability and the experience he demonstrates at all times are some of Erick Gutiérrez's main strengths. Last night, he was a key player in Gabriel Milito's plan to overcome their archrivals and win El Clásico de México, corresponding to Matchday 8 of the 2025 Apertura.

With an individual performance that is more than remarkable, 'Guti' has established himself as one of the main pillars of the Rebaño Sagrado, thanks to his tactical intelligence, personality, vision, and leadership in every game.

For this reason, it is well worth taking a detailed look at the Guadalajara captain's performance so far in the national championship.

In just six days, Erick Gutiérrez has racked up three assists. In the friendly against León, he provided two goal passes, while last night he set up 'Piojo' Alvarado for the first goal against the Águilas.

This reflects the new role he has been given under Gabriel Milito, as he starts as a double pivot at the base of the play but has the freedom to gain ground on the field and drop to the wing to link up with his teammates. In fact, his assist against the Azulcremas came precisely from the left wing, where he appeared unmarked and surprised the opposition.

"We knew it was going to be a tough game. We've done things well and played good soccer throughout the tournament, but we've made mistakes. We're in a process and we have to take this with a lot of humility. Thank God we got the win," said the Rebaño captain after the victory in El Clásico de México.

Throughout the 2025 Apertura, Erick Gutiérrez has played in all seven of the Rebaño Sagrado's games, accumulating 532 minutes. His participation has been very productive for the Argentine coach and also for those around him, as he is often the player who commands Guadalajara's possession.

"Today we played a very intelligent game. We support the coach, he trusts us a lot, and today we gave him back a little of what he has given us in the tournament."

His impact with the ball can be summed up in his precision and aggressiveness in his passes, which has led him to generate two assists and five key passes. "Guti" has completed 273 passes (86% accuracy) and three dribbles.

Without the ball, he is also one of the Rojiblancos' standard-bearers, thanks to his energy and ability to pressure the opponent. The Los Mochis native has seven successful tackles, six steals, and four interceptions.

"Today there is a lot of joy. We worked hard during the week and hadn't gotten the results we wanted. We approached this game with a winning mentality. We needed the victory, and this gives us a lot of momentum for what's to come. The fans always support us through thick and thin. They deserve this."