Guridi, born in Azpeitia on February 28, 1995, declined a renewal offer from Alavés to make the move to Nervión. He spent four seasons at the Basque club, making 148 appearances across LaLiga and the Copa del Rey and accumulating seven goals and eight assists. He was a key figure in García Plaza's side during the manager's 18-month spell in Vitoria, contributing directly to the club's promotion to the top flight in 2022-23.
The connection to García Plaza was explicit and acknowledged. Sevilla confirmed Guridi was "an express request" from the head coach, who arrived at the Andalusian club in late March to replace Matías Almeyda and guided them to a survival that was not secured until the penultimate matchday and by only a single point.
Guridi is a central midfielder who can play as a deep-lying organiser or advance into a number ten role. He came through Real Sociedad's youth academy, made loan moves to Lleida, Mirandés and ultimately joined Alavés permanently in the summer of 2022. He brings top-flight experience, physical durability and familiarity with García Plaza's methods.
The deal makes him the fourth signing for next season, joining Juan Iglesias, Arouna Sangante and Patrik Mercado — all three of whom were confirmed by former sporting director Antonio Cordón before his departure on May 31.
José Ignacio Navarro, confirmed as the new sporting director only days ago, had the medical completed on Wednesday morning before the announcement. It is the quickest possible indication of intent from a man taking charge of a Sevilla squad that requires significant reinvestment after two seasons battling relegation.
Pre-season begins on July 3. The work is already underway.