Julio Pleguezuelo has committed his future to Plymouth Argyle, signing a new deal that will keep him at Home Park until 2027.
As he continues to make his mark in the Championship, the Spanish defender has reflected on his journey, including the decision to join Arsenal as a teenager.
PLYMOUTH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Julio Pleguezuelo of Plymouth Argyle during the Sky Bet Championship match between Plymouth Argyle FC and Bristol City FC at Home Park on January 01, 2025 in Plymouth, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Pleguezuelo arrived in England at just 16 years old, leaving Barcelona’s La Masia to join Arsenal’s academy in 2013. It was a bold move, but one that allowed him to develop under some of the most highly regarded coaches in youth football.
He quickly became a key figure for the Under-21s, captaining them while making 90 appearances across all competitions at youth and reserve level. He eventually broke into the first team, making his senior debut, and only appearance, in an EFL Cup win over Blackpool in October 2018 under Unai Emery. An ill-timed injury then struck.
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 31: Nathan Delfouneso of Blackpool is challenged by Julio Pleguezuelo of Arsenal during the Carabao Cup Fourth Round match between Arsenal and Blackpool at Emirates Stadium on October 31, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Despite being highly rated within Arsenal’s youth setup, first-team opportunities were limited, and in the summer of 2019, he left North London in search of regular senior football.
Arsenal opted against renewing his contract, allowing him to move on a free transfer to FC Twente in the Netherlands, where he would go on to make 96 appearances over four seasons. His performances in the Eredivisie earned him a move to Plymouth Argyle in 2023, where he has since become a crucial part of their defence, making 43 starts and 12 substitute appearances.
Now 28, Pleguezuelo remains deeply connected to English football, and his affection for the game played a crucial role in his decision to extend his stay at Plymouth. “I love English football. That’s why I came to England when I was 16 [to sign for Arsenal’s academy].
“The club itself is very heartwarming. I think I have managed to integrate myself here really well and I just want to keep continuing this chapter.”
Though he was linked with a move to Hibernian in January, he was quick to dismiss any speculation. “Obviously, there is always rumours but in that regard my intention was always to stay here so no concerns about that.
“Plymouth is a beautiful city, beautiful people, so I’m really happy to stay here.”
Pleguezuelo played over an hour of Plymouth’s recent FA Cup win over Liverpool. The former Arsenal defender delivered an impressive display, recording four clearances and five tackles while remaining unbeaten in one-on-one situations.
In fact, Pleguezuelo won all six of his individual duels.
He was replaced in the 67th minute after picking up a knock.