West Ham United has announced the signing of Argentine international midfielder Guido Rodriguez on a free transfer, making him the club's sixth summer acquisition. The 30-year-old joins from Real Betis after his contract expired.
Rodriguez, who was part of the Argentina squad that triumphed in the 2022 World Cup and won the Copa America in 2021 and 2024, has spent the last four-and-a-half years in Spain. During his time at Betis, he played a crucial role in helping the team qualify for European competitions in each of the past four seasons.
“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," Rodriguez said in a club statement. "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."
West Ham's squad has also been bolstered by the additions of German international striker Niclas Fuellkrug, wingers Crysencio Summerville and Luis Guilherme, and defender Max Kilman, all under the management of Julen Lopetegui for his inaugural season.
Technical Director Tim Steidten described Rodriguez's signing as a "statement of intent," emphasizing the club's ambition to improve upon their ninth-place finish in the Premier League last season. “This is a massive moment for West Ham United in bringing a player of Guido’s pedigree to the club," Steidten said. "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."
