A. Gutman Chicago Fire FC Defender 15 – Key Contributions and Impact on the Team
Andrew Gutman’s been making waves as the number 15 defender for Chicago Fire FC, mixing steady defense with a real hunger to get forward and help the attack. At 5’10” and 159 pounds, he brings a nice combo of speed and strength to that left-back spot.
He’s known for a relentless work rate and, honestly, you can count on him week in and week out. Since joining the team, Gutman’s become a fixture in the back line.
Gutman grew up in Hinsdale, Illinois, and worked his way up to Major League Soccer. He’s got experience and leadership that both teammates and coaches appreciate.
Fans keep a close eye on him, wondering just how much he’ll shape Chicago Fire FC’s defense this season.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Chicago Fire FC | 23 | 2 | 3 |
Contents
Profile of Andrew Gutman
Andrew Gutman’s really stood out for Chicago Fire FC with his steady performances. He brings a blend of experience, athleticism, and technical skill to the left-back position.
He’s become a big part of the team’s defensive line.
Biographical Information
Andrew David Gutman was born October 2, 1996, right there in Hinsdale, Illinois. As a kid, he showed real promise in soccer and played locally before joining the Chicago Fire Academy.
That background set him up to become a pro.
Gutman went on to Indiana University, where he put together a strong college career and picked up some honors along the way. His roots in Hinsdale and Illinois definitely shaped his path to Major League Soccer.
Quick Facts:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Andrew David Gutman |
| Date of Birth | October 2, 1996 |
| Birthplace | Hinsdale, Illinois |
| College | Indiana University |
| Current Club | Chicago Fire FC |
Physical Attributes
Gutman stands about 5 feet 11 inches tall. He’s weighed in around 165 to 170 pounds.
That size helps him stay agile and strong on the pitch. It’s a good mix for handling those physical battles and sprinting down the flank.
He balances speed with endurance, which lets him keep up a high work rate all game long. Gutman gets back defensively and still finds the energy to join in on attacks.
He’s got good footwork too, which makes him a steady choice for both defense and attack on the left.
Position and Playing Role
Andrew Gutman mainly lines up at left-back for Chicago Fire FC, wearing number 15. That role calls for defensive smarts and a willingness to get forward, and Gutman’s got both.
He times his tackles well and knows where to be. When the Fire push up, he’s not shy about making overlapping runs or swinging in a cross.
He’s even chipped in with a couple goals—2 in 14 matches during the 2025 season, according to performance stats.
His discipline and work rate let Chicago rely on him, especially when things get tense or the game opens up in transition.
Professional Career with Chicago Fire FC
Andrew Gutman’s road to Chicago Fire FC is a classic story—academy product who came back to make a real impact with the first team. Let’s look at how he arrived, his key games, and the way he’s helped shape the team at Soldier Field.
Joining Chicago Fire FC
Gutman, a local guy, started out in the Fire’s academy. He built a solid foundation before moving up to MLS.
In December 2023, he made his return to Chicago Fire FC after some time with other MLS squads. The club added him as a left-back, hoping he’d bring a spark and fill a spot that needed depth.
This move was more than just a homecoming. The Fire invested in a player with local roots and a proven track record.
Gutman signed a contract through the end of the 2026 MLS season, with a club option for one more year. The club made it clear: they’re serious about homegrown talent and shoring up the back line. Here’s the official announcement.
Notable Performances
During the 2024 MLS season, Gutman wasted no time making an impact. He locked things down defensively and wasn’t afraid to join the attack.
His performances at Soldier Field really stood out. He kept his cool in big moments.
He had a strong debut against Philadelphia Union, showing off his positioning and tackling. He also helped the team keep clean sheets against top Eastern Conference opponents, linking up well with the center backs and getting forward down the left.
Selected Match Statistics for 2024 MLS Season:
| Match | Minutes Played | Tackles | Interceptions | Assists | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Philadelphia Union | 90 | 4 | 3 | 0 | Yes |
| vs New York City FC | 85 | 2 | 2 | 1 | No |
| vs D.C. United | 90 | 3 | 4 | 0 | Yes |
These are just a few regular season highlights.
Role as Defender
Gutman’s main job for the Fire is left-back. He’s often matched up against speedy wingers and has to start plays from deep.
He uses his speed and stamina to track runners. His timing in tackles breaks up attacks.
He also gets the green light to push forward, overlapping the midfielders and providing an extra threat on the left. This dual role is valuable—he can defend set pieces and stretch the field during transitions.
As a homegrown player, Gutman understands what the club wants tactically. He keeps things simple: organize the back line, join the attack when it’s on, and always try to stay a step ahead.
Impact on Team Dynamics
Gutman’s experience and local ties have made a difference in the locker room and on the pitch. He fit right in with the Fire’s style and helped younger defenders get up to speed in MLS.
His calm presence stands out, especially in tight games at Soldier Field. Teammates trust his judgment in big moments.
He communicates well and isn’t afraid to cover for others, which helps keep the team’s shape when pressing high.
Off the field, Gutman gets involved with local youth. He’s become a role model for young Chicago players.
His influence goes beyond stats—he’s helped build team unity and shown how important developing homegrown talent can be. Check out his MLS profile for more background.
MLS Journey and Club Transfers
Andrew Gutman’s professional journey has taken him across several MLS clubs, each with its own challenges and opportunities. It’s a path that shows just how unpredictable soccer careers can be.
Move to Atlanta United FC
Gutman made the jump to Atlanta United FC after some time in the lower leagues and with other MLS teams. Atlanta wanted stability at left back, and Gutman delivered.
He adapted quickly and became known for solid defending and a willingness to get up the field. In his first season, he logged plenty of minutes and made those overlapping runs look easy.
Atlanta counted on his work rate and tactical sense, especially when the squad had injuries or suspensions.
Here’s a quick look at his first Atlanta United season:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 22 | 4 | 3 |
Gutman’s form in Atlanta made him a go-to guy in the defensive line.
Time at FC Cincinnati
Before Atlanta, Gutman spent time with FC Cincinnati. He joined early in their MLS journey and was asked to help shore up a defense that struggled.
He kept improving, even when things got tough for the team. His speed and crossing ability stood out, and he even chipped in with a goal or two.
Despite Cincinnati’s constant changes at coach and tactics, Gutman stayed a regular in the lineup. That experience helped him get ready for bigger challenges down the road.
Transition to Colorado Rapids
Next up was a move to the Colorado Rapids. The Rapids brought him in as part of a trade with Chicago Fire FC that included allocation money and defender Miguel Navarro.
Colorado wanted Gutman’s MLS experience and versatility. He played as a starting left back and sometimes even moved up as a wingback.
The Rapids gave him a clear defensive role, especially during a stretch where they focused on tightening things up at the back. Gutman’s discipline and communication with the center backs made a difference in close games.
He also helped mentor younger defenders, which the Rapids definitely needed.
Stints with Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union
Gutman also had brief spells with Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union. With Columbus, he didn’t get a ton of minutes but learned from some veteran defenders and picked up different tactical ideas.
His loan at Philadelphia Union put him in some high-press situations. He showed he could play out of the back and keep his cool under pressure.
Those games gave him a taste of playoff atmospheres and helped raise expectations for his next stops.
Through all these moves, Gutman built up experience that’s served him well in MLS.
Youth Career and Development
Andrew Gutman’s soccer roots run deep in Illinois. He played in Hinsdale with his local team and later at the Chicago Fire Academy in the city.
Those early years shaped him as a defender.
Beginnings at Chicago Fire Academy
Gutman’s journey really picked up speed when he joined the Chicago Fire Academy. That’s where he got real coaching and faced top competition.
He trained with other young players who had pro dreams, and the academy’s reputation for producing talent is no joke.
He sharpened his defensive instincts, learned how to read the game, and adapted to the high expectations of a big club. Coaches noticed his potential early.
He quickly became a standout in his age group. His time at the academy led to a homegrown contract offer from the Fire.
He actually chose to explore opportunities abroad before finally signing with his hometown team.
| Season | Team | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 2011-2015 | Chicago Fire Academy | Developed as key defensive player |
Early Years in Hinsdale
Before he ever hit the professional academy circuit, Andrew Gutman laced up for the Hinsdale Red Devils back in Hinsdale, Illinois. That’s where his local youth soccer journey began, right in his own backyard.
Playing so close to home let him focus on the basics. He learned teamwork, discipline, and the nuts and bolts of technique.
Those early days? Absolutely vital. You could see Gutman’s talent right away—he stood out, quickly taking on a leadership role and getting noticed for his performances.
He built up the confidence he’d need to chase bigger things later. That foundation sent him off to new challenges, including his time in Chicago’s soccer scene.
| Year | Club | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Hinsdale Red Devils | Hinsdale, Illinois |
College Achievements and Awards
Andrew Gutman really left his mark on college soccer. His performances and the awards he picked up made him one of the top defenders out there.
He just kept delivering, season after season, and people took notice—both for what he did individually and for his teams.
MAC Hermann Trophy Winner
Let’s talk about the MAC Hermann Trophy. That’s the big one in college soccer, handed out each year to the best collegiate player.
Gutman snagged it in his senior year. That put him in a class of his own as the top player in the country.
He made his name not just by locking things down in defense, but also by pushing forward and getting involved in the attack. That dual threat? Huge part of his success.
The selection committee pointed out how he stepped up in big games. He changed the course of matches, simple as that.
All season long, he kept piling up strong numbers—defensive stats, sure, but also his impact in every match. That MAC Hermann win? It shot his profile way up as a pro prospect.
| Year | Goals | Assists | Games Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 11 | 9 | 23 |
All-America Honors and Recognitions
Gutman didn’t just grab one award—he racked up All-America honors throughout college. These are for the top players at each position, nationwide.
He made the United Soccer Coaches All-America First Team, which said a lot about his consistency.
Coaches and analysts loved his mix of defending and attacking. His work ethic and technical skills really set him apart.
He landed on other national and regional All-America lists too. That confirmed what everyone was seeing: Gutman was one of the best defenders in college soccer.
People didn’t just look at stats—they saw his leadership, his soccer IQ. Coaches highlighted his big-game performances, especially against the toughest opponents.
Big Ten Defender of the Year
Winning Big Ten Defender of the Year? That’s no small feat. Gutman earned it by dominating as a defender, and the coaches across the conference took notice.
He led the back line with a cool head and sharp focus. Opposing forwards rarely got the better of him.
His positioning and anticipation drew praise from coaches and the media. He wasn’t just good one-on-one—he organized the whole defense.
That award really showed off both his individual talent and his value to the team.
First-Team All-Big Ten Selections
Gutman made First-Team All-Big Ten more than once, which speaks to his consistency.
He kept showing up in big moments, and coaches counted on him to adapt to whatever came his way.
He delivered against the top competition, game in and game out. Those First-Team honors? They recognized not just skill, but his commitment and prep for every match.
If you want the full list of his achievements, check out his Wikipedia profile.
Legacy and Influence in Major League Soccer
Andrew Gutman’s impact with Chicago Fire FC jumps out at you. He’s got the stats, the leadership, and he’s playing a big role in shaping the next generation of MLS defenders.
Contributions to the Sport
Gutman’s left back play has become a cornerstone for Chicago’s defense. He reads the game well, jumps into the attack, and keeps things tidy at the back.
He’s known for those surging runs forward—remember that goal against Toronto FC? That’s the kind of dual-threat he brings.
Since joining the Fire, Gutman has brought stability to a backline that needed it. He wins tackles, positions himself smartly, and helps cut down on defensive errors.
Coaches trust him in the big moments. That’s not something you see every day.
Key Defensive Stats at Chicago Fire FC:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Tackles | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 28 | 3 | 4 | 62 | 34 |
| 2025* | 14 | 2 | 1 | 31 | 15 |
*Statistics through June 2025.
Influence on Young Defenders
Gutman’s journey shows young defenders in MLS what’s possible. He came up through the Chicago Fire Academy, so he knows how tough that jump can be.
He spends time with academy players, answering questions and sharing tactical advice.
He’s open about his own path—working through loan spells, fighting for a starting spot. That story gives hope to others who might feel uncertain at first.
Younger defenders watch him study film, put in extra conditioning, and realize that’s the blueprint for success.
He’s approachable, always willing to help teammates get better. That’s made him a trusted voice in the locker room.
Recognition Within MLS
Hey, let’s talk about Andrew Gutman—he’s definitely turning heads around MLS. When Chicago took down Toronto FC, Gutman didn’t just play well; he scored and landed a spot on the MLS Team of the Matchday.
That’s not just a stat line, folks. The league’s giving him real respect at left back, and it’s clear Chicago counts on him.
Coaches and analysts keep mentioning how much he’s grown. They point out his cool under pressure and his knack for getting the job done.
Chicago doubled down, locking him in through 2026. That says a lot about how much they trust his leadership and steady play.
He’s not just a name on a lineup card anymore. People around the league talk about Gutman as one of MLS’s top defenders.
He’s earned that reputation the hard way—showing up every match, doing the dirty work, and making it look easy. Want more on his big day? Check out the MLS Team of the Matchday and catch those highlights.
