The preseason leading up to the Clausura 2026 sent very clear signals for Guadalajara. Throughout this preparation period, the team showed identity, command of its playing system, and squad depth, with a promising blend of youth, experience, and new signings that has resulted in a roster with strong collective solidity ahead of its tournament debut against the Tuzos of Pachuca.
Beyond the results in friendly matches, the past few weeks allowed the coaching staff led by Gabriel Milito to test different variations, give minutes to all of his players, and consolidate an idea that began to mature as the previous competition progressed.
The Rojiblanco Academy, a Key Player in the Milito Era
One of the most visible hallmarks of Guadalajara during the preseason was the strong presence of homegrown players. A total of nine footballers from the youth teams and Tapatío took part in the preseason in Isla Navidad, and most of them logged minutes in the friendlies, where they displayed personality and a solid understanding of the game.
The youngsters not only gained playing time, but also integrated naturally into the team’s different structures, while providing intensity, dynamism, and versatility across several areas of the pitch. The message was clear: at Chivas, the academy remains a constant source of solutions.
Defensive Solidity and Organization as a Starting Point
Another standout aspect of El Rebaño was its defensive performance. In all three matches, the team showed organization, strong game awareness, and the ability to remain solid, even amid tactical adjustments and system changes.
The back line responded well in both three- and four-man defensive systems, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate different alternatives without compromising the team’s balance. That stability was key for Guadalajara to build play from the back and express itself more freely in attack.
A Team with Multiple Resources
In attack, Chivas made it clear that it has several ways to create danger. Whether through possession, interior play, center backs joining the attack, or pressing after losing the ball, El Rebaño found solutions as the preseason progressed.
The win over Irapuato, the goalless draw against Atlas, and the victory over Leones Negros reflected different scenarios, but one constant remained: a team capable of adapting to various match situations and competing through different approaches.
New Signings Already Making an Impact
The new additions also left positive impressions. Brian Gutiérrez contributed quality passing and established himself as a key playmaker when deployed in a double pivot, becoming an essential piece in maintaining the team’s balance during transitional moments.
Ángel Sepúlveda, meanwhile, displayed his experience and command of the collective game by registering two assists in two matches played, while serving as a constant reference point in the final third.
Finally, Ricardo Marín confirmed his strong attacking form by finishing the preseason with one goal and two assists, providing further reasons to approach the start of the tournament with confidence.
All Set for the Debut
With a preseason that laid solid foundations, distributed minutes, and a concept still under construction, Chivas completed its preparation focused on reaching its best version as soon as possible. This Saturday, against Pachuca, a new challenge officially begins for a Rebaño that inspires excitement among the Rojiblanca Nation.
