Fernando Muslera Joins Estudiantes de La Plata on 18-Month Deal

Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera has signed with Estudiantes de La Plata, choosing the Argentine club over a return to Peñarol. After weeks of negotiations, the former Galatasaray icon agreed to an 18-month contract and is expected to join the squad shortly to begin preparations for the Copa Libertadores and the upcoming Clausura tournament.

Muslera, 37, recently concluded a 14-year tenure at Galatasaray, where he played over 450 matches and became one of the most beloved figures in the club’s history. He also starred for Uruguay in three World Cups and won the Copa América in 2011, cementing his reputation as one of South America’s top goalkeepers over the past decade.

Estudiantes’ successful bid has generated major excitement among fans, especially after Muslera declined Peñarol’s offer despite his long-standing ties to the club and a personal friendship with its president. Currently in Uruguay, Muslera is finalizing paperwork before heading to Argentina, where he is expected to attend training next Wednesday under coach Eduardo Domínguez.

"I let my team handle the offers, but yes, I spoke with Peñarol’s president," Muslera said. “I’d like to be close to home, and that’s what we’re working on.”