Why Parma picked Guaita to replace Suzuki | OneFootball

Experience proved to be key as Vicente Guaita is set to join Parma on a free transfer, replacing the injured Zion Suzuki.

Parma are ready to welcome experienced goalkeeper Vicente Guaita, who will turn 39 on January 10, 2026.

Football Italia already reported on Monday that the Spanish goalkeeper was the top name on Parma’s agenda following an injury to their starting man between the sticks, Suzuki.

ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Zion Suzuki of Parma Calcio 1913 controls the ball during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Olimpico on October 29, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

The Japan international will have to undergo surgery due to a fracture in the middle finger of his left hand and will remain out of action for a few months.

A former goalkeeper for Crystal Palace, Valencia, Getafe, Celta Vigo and Recreativo Huelva, Guaita has been without a club since last July, when his contract with Celta Vigo expired.

SEVILLE, SPAIN – DECEMBER 14: Vicente Guaita of Celta Vigo reacts during the LaLiga match between Sevilla FC and RC Celta de Vigo at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on December 14, 2024 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The Ducali took a few days to think about Guaita’s signing on a free transfer, but then decided within 48 hours and before a key game against Hellas Verona this coming weekend.

Parma opted to sign an experienced goalkeeper like Guaita, given that Edoardo Corvi, 24, and Filippo Rinaldi, 22, are still untested at a senior level.