'Team is not where it deserves to be' - Chivas dismiss manager Gerardo Espinoza after elimination from Clausura 2025

After their elimination from the Clausura 2025 tournament, Chivas dismissed manager Gerardo Espinoza, sporting director Javier Mier announced Monday. Espinoza departs after recording two wins, three losses and four draws, with an effectiveness rate of 37%.

"The first message is to come forward and take responsibility because it is clear that the team is not where it deserves to be," Mier said. "Also, we inform you that Gerardo Espinoza will no longer continue as Chivas’ head coach. We are very thankful to him. As a coach, he is a capable Mexican, and I personally hope he gets another opportunity, because opportunities for young coaches must continue to be given."

The club's board is now searching for their third coach of the year, with Ignacio Ambriz and Jimmy Lozano emerging as the leading candidates. Mier also addressed the club’s transfer strategy and the need for players with the right mindset and pedigree, rather than flashy signings.

"Beyond marquee signings, we need players with experience and leadership," he said. "The direction of the project is what matters most. We’re looking for players who will truly contribute - not just big-name reinforcements. We need a player profile that understands things are different at Chivas. Playing here is not the same as playing elsewhere.

"We have to guide them through that process, because the responsibility lies with all of us - not just the players or the new arrivals. We’re at a turning point, and it’s time to lay down a clear foundation and make it clear what it means to be part of this club."

Chivas begin roster overhaul following their Clausura 2025 elimination, finishing 11th with 21 points. The first casualty, as expected, was Espinoza, who had stepped in as an emergency replacement for Spanish manager Óscar García. García departed after coaching the team during the early stages of the tournament.

Espinoza attempted to steady the ship but was ultimately unable to turn things around. Chivas were eliminated from the Champions Cup in the Round of 16 against América, and under his management, the team won only one match in Liga MX.

Mier confirmed that the team will return to training on May 21 to begin preseason preparations. For now, the club's top priority is to find a new coach, with transfer activity to follow afterward.

“There are three key pillars that are fundamental: we have the best youth academy, and we need to strengthen our coaches, attract the best Mexican talent, and reinforce with experienced players. We need to bring in players who have qualities that our current squad lacks - we must complement these three pillars,” said the sporting director at a news conference.

Regarding the possible departure of Chicharito Hernández, who has scored just three goals in 34 appearances since returning to the club, Mier said that he remains on the team.

"The hierarchy that Javier Hernández has, not only at Chivas but in Mexican football, he has earned it, and he has had a career that many would dream of," Mier said. "As of today, Javier is a Chivas player, and if anything were to change, it would be something that he would have to discuss with us."

Chivas have not won a Liga MX title since the Clausura 2017 tournament, meaning it has been eight years since their last league championship. Their most recent title came under the management of Matías Almeyda.