The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Club Deportivo Guadalajara, commonly known as Chivas, as they aim to reclaim their status as one of Mexico’s most dominant football clubs. With a rich history and a passionate fanbase, Chivas has always prioritized nurturing homegrown talent while strategically integrating key signings to bolster their squad. This season is no different, as the team has assembled a balanced roster featuring a mix of experienced veterans, rising stars, and promising youngsters. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the Chivas squad for the 2024/25 campaign, categorized by position, and provide an in-depth analysis of each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
1. José Rangel
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío (Chivas reserve team)
Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
José Rangel is a product of Chivas’ renowned youth academy, La Cantera Rojiblanca. At just 22 years old, Rangel has already shown immense potential, earning his spot as the team’s second-choice goalkeeper. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Rangel has been a reliable backup and is seen as the future of Chivas’ goalkeeping department. His performances in the reserve team earned him a call-up to the senior squad, where he continues to develop under the guidance of more experienced players.
2. Miguel Jiménez
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Necaxa, Tapatío
Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (from Necaxa in 2022)
Miguel Jiménez has established himself as Chivas’ first-choice goalkeeper following his transfer from Necaxa. At 27, Jiménez brings a wealth of experience and consistency to the team. His ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him the trust of both the coaching staff and the fans. Jiménez’s distribution and leadership skills have also been instrumental in organizing the defense, making him a key figure in Chivas’ quest for silverware.
3. Oscar Whalley
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Sporting Gijón, Real Zaragoza, CD Lugo
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Oscar Whalley, the seasoned Spanish shot-stopper, joined Chivas in 2023 as a free agent. At 30 years old, Whalley provides valuable depth and experience to the goalkeeping unit. Known for his agility and ability to read the game, Whalley has been a dependable option when called upon. His presence also serves as a mentorship role for younger goalkeepers like Rangel, ensuring a smooth transition for the future.
Defenders
1. Gilberto Sepúlveda
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío
Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
Gilberto Sepúlveda is a cornerstone of Chivas’ defense. The 24-year-old center-back has risen through the ranks of the club’s academy and has become a mainstay in the starting lineup. Sepúlveda’s composure on the ball, aerial dominance, and tactical intelligence make him a vital asset. His ability to play out from the back aligns perfectly with Chivas’ style of play, and he has already garnered interest from European clubs.
2. Antonio Briseño
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Atlas, FC Juárez, Feirense (Portugal)
Transfer Fee: $2 million (from FC Juárez in 2021)
Antonio Briseño, affectionately known as “Pollo,” is a seasoned defender with a no-nonsense approach to the game. At 30 years old, Briseño’s leadership and physicality have been crucial in shoring up Chivas’ backline. His experience in both Liga MX and international competitions adds a layer of reliability to the defense, making him a key figure in high-stakes matches.
3. Jesús Sánchez
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío
Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
Jesús Sánchez is a versatile full-back who can operate on either flank. The 25-year-old has been a consistent performer for Chivas, known for his tireless work rate and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. Sánchez’s crossing and overlapping runs have been a valuable asset in creating chances for the team’s forwards.
4. Alan Mozo
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Pumas UNAM
Transfer Fee: $3 million (from Pumas UNAM in 2023)
Alan Mozo joined Chivas in 2023 and has quickly become a fan favorite. The 26-year-old right-back is renowned for his attacking prowess and defensive solidity. Mozo’s ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and his tenacity in one-on-one situations make him a complete modern full-back. His transfer from Pumas UNAM was seen as a major coup for Chivas, and he has lived up to expectations.
5. Luis Olivas
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío
Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
Luis Olivas is a promising young center-back who has steadily risen through Chivas’ ranks. At 23 years old, Olivas has shown maturity beyond his years, with his ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions. His partnership with Sepúlveda has the potential to be one of the best defensive duos in Liga MX.
6. Cristian Calderón
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Necaxa, Club América
Transfer Fee: $4 million (from Necaxa in 2020)
Cristian Calderón is a dynamic left-back known for his speed and technical ability. The 27-year-old has been a consistent performer for Chivas, providing width and creativity down the left flank. Calderón’s defensive awareness and ability to contribute to the attack make him an indispensable part of the squad.
Midfielders
1. Fernando Beltrán
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío
Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
Fernando Beltrán, nicknamed “Nene,” is the heartbeat of Chivas’ midfield. The 26-year-old playmaker is known for his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Beltrán’s creativity and work ethic have made him a fan favorite, and he continues to be a key figure in Chivas’ pursuit of success.
2. Rubén González
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío
Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
Rubén González is a versatile midfielder who can play both defensively and in a box-to-box role. The 24-year-old has impressed with his energy, tackling, and ability to break up opposition play. González’s development has been a bright spot for Chivas, and he is expected to play a more prominent role this season.
3. Erick Gutiérrez
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Pachuca, PSV Eindhoven
Transfer Fee: $6 million (from PSV Eindhoven in 2023)
Erick Gutiérrez’s return to Liga MX with Chivas was a major statement of intent. The 28-year-old midfielder brings a wealth of experience from his time in Europe, where he excelled with PSV Eindhoven. Gutiérrez’s technical ability, vision, and goal-scoring prowess make him a vital cog in Chivas’ midfield.
4. Roberto Alvarado
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Cruz Azul, Necaxa
Transfer Fee: $5 million (from Cruz Azul in 2022)
Roberto Alvarado, known as “Piojo,” is a dynamic winger who can also operate in central midfield. The 25-year-old is known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to score spectacular goals. Alvarado’s versatility and flair have made him a key player for Chivas, and he continues to be a threat to opposition defenses.
5. Pável Pérez
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío
Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
Pável Pérez is a young midfielder with immense potential. At just 21 years old, Pérez has already shown glimpses of his talent, with his ability to drive forward with the ball and pick out key passes. His development will be closely monitored, as he is seen as a future star for both Chivas and the Mexican national team.
Forwards
1. José Juan Macías
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: León, Getafe (Spain)
Transfer Fee: $8 million (from León in 2021)
José Juan Macías is Chivas’ talismanic striker. The 24-year-old has established himself as one of the most prolific goal-scorers in Liga MX. Macías’ clinical finishing, movement, and ability to hold up the ball make him a complete forward. After a brief stint in Spain with Getafe, Macías returned to Chivas, where he continues to be the focal point of the attack.
2. Ronaldo Cisneros
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Tapatío, Atlético San Luis
Transfer Fee: $2 million (from Atlético San Luis in 2022)
Ronaldo Cisneros is a versatile forward who can play as a center-forward or on the wing. The 27-year-old is known for his pace, work rate, and ability to score crucial goals. Cisneros’ versatility and commitment have made him a valuable asset for Chivas, and he continues to be a reliable option in the attacking third.
3. Ángel Zaldívar
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: León, Atlas
Transfer Fee: $3 million (from León in 2019)
Ángel Zaldívar is a seasoned forward with a knack for scoring important goals. The 29-year-old’s physicality and aerial ability make him a threat in the box, while his experience provides leadership to the younger players. Zaldívar’s contributions have been vital in Chivas’ quest for success.
4. Isaác Brizuela
Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Toluca, Chiapas
Transfer Fee: $4 million (from Toluca in 2014)
Isaác Brizuela, known as “Conejo,” is a dynamic winger with a wealth of experience. The 33-year-old remains a key player for Chivas, thanks to his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to deliver in big moments. Brizuela’s leadership and experience continue to be invaluable to the team.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 CD Guadalajara squad is a blend of youth and experience, with a strong emphasis on homegrown talent and strategic signings. Each player brings unique qualities to the team, contributing to a balanced and competitive roster. As Chivas aims to reclaim their place at the pinnacle of Mexican football, the performances of these players will be crucial in determining the team’s success. With a passionate fanbase behind them, the future looks bright for Chivas as they embark on this exciting new season.
