Best Chivas Players: Legends Who Defined Guadalajara’s Glory
Club Deportivo Guadalajara, commonly known as Chivas, is one of the most storied and successful football clubs in Mexico and all of Latin America. Founded in 1906, Chivas has a proud tradition of fielding only Mexican players, a policy that has become a symbol of national pride.
Over the years, the club has produced some of the greatest talents in Mexican football history. This list celebrates the 10 best Chivas players to have ever worn the red and white striped icon jersey, honoring those who have left a lasting legacy at the club and made significant contributions to its rich history.
10. Fernando Quirarte (1973 – 1987)
Position: Defender
Height/Weight: 6’0″, 170 lbs
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Fernando Quirarte, known as “El Sheriff,” was a commanding presence in the Chivas defense during the 1970s and 1980s. A product of the Chivas youth academy, Quirarte was known for his leadership, strong tackling, and ability to read the game.
His consistency and reliability at the back made him a cornerstone of the team for over a decade. Quirarte’s contributions were crucial in helping Chivas reach the Liga MX final in 1982-83, and his defensive prowess earned him a spot on the Mexican national team, where he played in two World Cups.
Quirarte remains a beloved figure among Chivas fans, remembered for his dedication and service to the club.
9. Ignacio Calderón (1962 – 1974)
Position: Goalkeeper
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 176 lbs
Ignacio Calderón, affectionately known as “El Cuate,” is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of Mexican football.
Calderón was a key figure for Chivas during their “Campeonísimo” era in the 1960s, helping the team secure multiple Liga MX titles. Known for his exceptional reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and command of the penalty area, Calderón was instrumental in Chivas’ dominance during this period.
He also represented Mexico in two World Cups (1966 and 1970), further solidifying his reputation as one of the best goalkeepers of his generation. Calderón’s legacy at Chivas is marked by his consistency and ability to perform in the biggest moments.
8. César Huerta (1968 – 1976)
Position: Forward
Height/Weight: 5’9″, 165 lbs
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César Huerta, known as “El Chicharrón,” was one of the most dynamic forwards to ever play for Chivas. A lethal striker with a natural ability to find the back of the net, Huerta was a key player for the team during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
His speed, dribbling skills, and clinical finishing made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Huerta’s ability to score in crucial moments endeared him to the Chivas faithful, and his contributions were vital in helping the team maintain its competitive edge during his tenure.
Though his time with Chivas was relatively short, Huerta’s impact was significant, leaving a lasting impression on the club’s history.
7. Oswaldo Sánchez (1999 – 2006)
Position: Goalkeeper
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 180 lbs
Oswaldo Sánchez is one of the most iconic goalkeepers in Chivas history, known for his leadership, shot-stopping ability, and passion for the game. Sánchez played a crucial role in Chivas’ 2006 Clausura title-winning campaign, where his outstanding performances between the posts earned him widespread acclaim.
With his commanding presence and ability to make critical saves, Sánchez became a fan favorite and a key figure in the team’s success during his tenure.
He also had a distinguished international career with Mexico, representing his country in three World Cups. Sánchez’s legacy at Chivas is marked by his fierce competitiveness and dedication to the club.
6. Benjamín Galindo (1980 – 1994)
Position: Midfielder
Height/Weight: 5’9″, 165 lbs
Benjamín Galindo, known as “El Maestro,” was a gifted midfielder renowned for his technical skills, vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game.
Galindo’s creativity and passing ability made him the engine of the Chivas midfield during the 1980s and early 1990s. He was instrumental in leading the team to the 1986-87 Liga MX title, showcasing his ability to deliver in big moments.
Galindo was also known for his free-kick prowess and his knack for scoring crucial goals. His intelligence on the ball and leadership qualities earned him a place among the all-time greats at Chivas and in Mexican football history.
5. Javier Hernández (Chicharito) (2006 – 2010)
Position: Forward
Height/Weight: 5’9″, 156 lbs
Javier Hernández, better known as “Chicharito,” quickly emerged as one of the brightest talents at Chivas.
During the 2010 Bicentenario, he showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting 10 goals in just 11 matches, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer.
His sharp instincts and ability to find the back of the net made him a fan favorite. Chicharito’s performances in Guadalajara earned him a transfer to Manchester United, making him the first Mexican to join the English giants.
With 29 goals in 79 appearances for Chivas, Chicharito left a lasting legacy as one of the most promising players to come out of the club in recent years.
4. Guillermo Sepúlveda (1953 – 1970)
Position: Defender
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 175 lbs
Guillermo Sepúlveda, affectionately known as “Tigre,” was the backbone of the Chivas defense during their golden “Campeonísimo” era.
His fierce tackling and leadership were pivotal in guiding the team to an incredible seven Liga MX titles during the 1950s and 1960s. Sepúlveda’s tough, no-nonsense approach made him a feared opponent and a respected leader on the field.
His ability to inspire and organize the defense played a crucial role in Chivas’ dominance in Mexican football, making him one of the most celebrated figures in the club’s history.
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3. Ramón Morales (1999 – 2009)
Position: Midfielder
Height/Weight: 5’6″, 150 lbs
Ramón Morales, or “Ramoncito,” was the engine of the Chivas midfield for a decade, known for his speed, precise crosses, and deadly set-pieces.
His leadership and skill were on full display during the 2006 Clausura, where he played a key role in leading Chivas to the championship, contributing with crucial goals and assists.
Morales was also instrumental in Chivas’ impressive run to the semifinals of the 2005 Copa Libertadores, scoring 6 goals in the tournament. Over his time with Chivas, Morales became a symbol of consistency and excellence, finishing his career with 65 goals in 338 appearances.
2. Omar Bravo (2001 – 2008, 2009 – 2010, 2014 – 2016)
Position: Forward
Height/Weight: 5’7″, 152 lbs
Omar Bravo, Chivas’ all-time leading scorer, was known for his incredible poaching instincts and ability to deliver in clutch situations. He scored 160 goals for Chivas, a testament to his enduring quality and sharpness in front of goal.
Bravo was the driving force behind Chivas’ 2006 Clausura title, where he finished as the league’s top scorer with 11 goals.
His knack for finding the back of the net, whether with his head or feet, made him a nightmare for defenders and a hero for the Chivas faithful. Bravo’s dedication to the club across multiple stints has solidified his status as one of the greatest players in the club’s storied history.
1. Salvador Reyes (1952 – 1967)
Position: Forward
Height/Weight: 5’8″, 155 lbs
Salvador Reyes, lovingly known as “Chava,” is the epitome of Chivas’ golden era. As the talismanic forward during the “Campeonísimo” years, Reyes scored 122 goals, making him the club’s second all-time leading scorer.
His impeccable positioning and clinical finishing were key in leading Chivas to seven Liga MX titles, making him one of the most feared forwards of his time.
Beyond his club success, Reyes was a stalwart for the Mexican national team, representing his country in three World Cups (1958, 1962, and 1966). His legacy at Chivas is unmatched, and he remains a symbol of the club’s rich history and success.
