Frontrunner Emerges for the Chivas Job | OneFootball

ESPN México suggests that Chivas is reportedly closing in on Spanish manager Óscar García to take over the reins. The news comes in the wake of a disappointing Apertura 2024 campaign, which saw the club finish ninth and miss the playoffs after losing the play-in against local rivals Atlas. With ambitions to reclaim their status as Liga MX contenders, the appointment of García signals a potential shift in strategy for the struggling giants.

Who is Óscar García?

Óscar García Junyent, a 50-year-old Catalan, boasts an impressive resume both as a player and manager. A product of FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, García played for the Blaugrana during the early 1990s before embarking on a career that included stints with Valencia, Espanyol, and other clubs. After hanging up his boots, he transitioned into coaching, honing his skills at the youth level with Barcelona and moving on to manage clubs across Europe.

García’s managerial experience spans multiple leagues, including stints in England (Brighton & Hove Albion), Austria (Red Bull Salzburg), and France (Stade de Reims). Known for his emphasis on possession-based football and tactical flexibility, he has earned a reputation as a modern, forward-thinking coach. However, his most significant success came in Austria, where he won two league titles and two Austrian Cups with Red Bull Salzburg.

The Situation at Chivas

Chivas, one of Mexico's most storied clubs, has endured a turbulent few months. After a strong showing in the Clausura 2023 where they reached the final, the team failed to maintain momentum. The Apertura 2024 campaign was particularly disappointing; their ninth-place finish forced them into the play-in, where they suffered a bitter defeat to Atlas, ending their postseason hopes.

Further complicating matters, former manager Fernando Gago left abruptly in October to join Boca Juniors in Argentina. The departure left a significant gap at the helm, and current interim manager Arturo Ortega was unable to leave an impression after a poor end to the Apertura. For a club that has not won the Liga MX title since 2017, the pressure is mounting to restore their reputation.

The Mission Ahead

If appointed, García’s mission will be crystal clear: bring Chivas back to the top. The club is desperate to end their seven-year title drought and re-establish themselves as perennial contenders in Liga MX. García’s task won’t be easy, as he must navigate the challenges of managing a squad composed entirely of Mexican players—a unique aspect of Chivas’ identity that both limits their recruitment options and amplifies the pressure to develop domestic talent.

Why García?

García’s tactical expertise and identity, creating a clear playing style make him a strong candidate for Chivas. His success in Austria, where he worked with a mix of experienced players and young prospects, mirrors the type of environment he would encounter in Guadalajara. However, his lack of experience in Mexican football could be a challenge, particularly when adapting to Liga MX’s distinct style and intensity.

Chivas reportedly face competition from other suitors for García’s services, but securing a coach with a European pedigree would send a strong message to fans and rivals alike. The appointment of García would signal Chivas’ ambition to modernise and evolve in their pursuit of a 13th Liga MX title.

As the clock ticks toward the Clausura 2025 season, Chivas fans will be watching closely to see if García is the man tasked with leading them back to the summit of Mexican football.