The Club Deportivo Guadalajara, commonly known as Chivas, is embarking on a major roster overhaul as it prepares for the Clausura 2025 season, marking significant changes following the disappointing results of the previous tournament.
After enduring struggles during the Apertura 2024 season, where they were eliminated early by local rivals Atlas, Chivas's management has decided it’s time for decisive action. At the forefront of these changes is the departure of veteran forward Isaac Brizuela, one of the team's most recognizable faces, after nearly ten years of service.
Brizuela, who has been central to Chivas’s identity, was informed by the coaching staff led by Óscar García Junyent, the club's new manager, of his exclusion from the upcoming project. “Brizuela no será parte del proyecto deportivo de Óscar García,” reported by Isaac Brizuela on December 19, 2024. Despite his long tenure and historical contributions—including several titles during the club's most successful era—his recent performances have not met the renewed expectations set by the current management.
During the past season, Brizuela accumulated only 47 minutes on the pitch, failing to score any goals, which marked a sharp decline from his previous seasons where he was frequently among the starting eleven. This stark reduction effectively left him on the fringes of the squad, signifying the need for younger or more impactful players.
Following his exit, other key players are also on the chopping block. Antonio Briseño has already confirmed his departure, and there are rumors surrounding Pável Pérez's potential transfer to Necaxa, heightening the sense of urgency among fans. The decision to transfer Pérez stems from similar underutilization issues and reflects the new strategic direction outlined by García.
Chivas’s management also confirms Jesús Orozco Chiquete’s imminent move to Cruz Azul, where he will command one of the highest transfer fees for any youth product from the club, at $11 million, solidifying his position as the highest-selling academy player in Chivas history. This speaks volumes about the financial maneuvering taking place as the club seeks to not only shed salary burdens but to also reinvest effectively.
With the exits of these experienced players, García’s leadership will undoubtedly be tested as he is tasked with reconstituting the team's competitive edge. "Las salidas permiten abrir espacio para nuevos refuerzos y conectar la plantilla con los objetivos deportivos,” reported Chivas on December 15, 2024. These statements underline the club’s goal of rebuilding by balancing youth with experience to prepare for the forthcoming season.
While several transfers are confirmed, excitement is brewing surrounding potential new signings. Negotiations are being reported for high-profile players such as Luis Chávez, Orbelín Pineda, and César Montes, all of whom could bring much-needed skill and flair to the roster. These acquisitions are seen as pivotal to reinstilling confidence within the fanbase, who have eagerly awaited steps to reverse the club's fortunes.
The future of Brizuela seems uncertain but appears geared toward Major League Soccer (MLS) as he contemplates his next career move. Recent sources hint at interest from San Diego FC and FC Juárez, indicating the potential for him to continue playing at a competitive level, albeit outside of Mexico's top league.
“Es FC Juárez el club interesado en incluir al Cone Brizuela,” announced by Jaqueline Almodóvar with FOX Sports Mexico on December 20, 2024. Should Brizuela finalize this move, it would not only be another chapter for the veteran but also leave Chivas at the crossroads of balancing legacy players with fresh talent.
Chivas fans are now left to digest these changes, with many expressing mixed feelings about the departure of iconic names from the roster. While these sentiments are understandable, the overarching focus of the club is crystal clear: to emerge stronger and more competitive for the Clausura 2025. The club’s message resonates deeply among its supporters—change is not just necessary but inevitable for returning to glory.
With Óscar García at the helm, Chivas is gearing up for what promises to be both challenging and exhilarating times. The shift from former players to fresh faces will undoubtedly redefine the identity of the team, and the upcoming season will be the first real test of García’s strategies and philosophies. One thing is certain: the Rebaño Sagrado intends to reclaim its spot among the elite of Mexican football.
