West Ham have called the signing of Guido Rodriguez a “massive moment” after the Argentina midfielder joined the club on a free transfer on a two-year deal.
Rodriguez, who left Real Betis after four years when his contract expired in June, won the 2022 Fifa World Cup and his second Copa America title with his country last month.
“Guido is a defensive midfielder whose intelligence in and out of possession is a real strength to his game,” said Hammers technical director Tim Steidten.
“He is also a proven winner… so to have secured his services is a big statement of intent. This is a massive moment for West Ham United in bringing a player of Guido’s pedigree to the club.
“He is a player I have admired for a long time and we couldn’t be happier to have completed the deal to bring him to east London.”
Our Argentinian Iron 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/KwJqSrl7qG
— West Ham United (@WestHam) August 6, 2024
Guido Rodriguez stats
The 30-year-old has won 30 caps for his country, making his debut in 2017, having made his breakthrough at senior level with River Plate in his homeland between 2014 and 2016.
Rodriguez has been reunited with Edson Alvarez, with whom he became a Mexican league and cup winner at Club America, where he played between 2017 and 2020.
“I feel like it’s every footballer’s dream to play in the Premier League and I was very excited when I heard that West Ham were interested in me,” said Rodriguez.
“It’s a historic club that has a really interesting project. I think it’s the right club for me at the right time and I hope together we can keep growing.
Guido’s got a message for you 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/owjoqb4rga
— West Ham United (@WestHam) August 6, 2024
“I spoke to Edson before signing and we’re both really looking forward to working together again.
“I will help the team in any way I can. I will bring experience to the team and, though I’m aware the Premier League is very physical, I’m ready to put the work in to make sure I’m up to the task.
“What I can say to the fans is that I will give them everything. I’m very motivated and I think, together with the supporters, we can achieve many good things. I just can’t wait to get going now.”
West Ham fixtures, schedule
West Ham’s first season under manager Julen Lopetegui starts with the visit of Aston Villa on August 17 (5.30pm BST).
They host Spanish visitors on Saturday when Celta Vigo visit the London Stadium (3pm).
