Víctor Guzmán leaves Chivas, returns to Pachuca for Apertura 2025 and Club World Cup

Chivas have confirmed another departure ahead of the Apertura 2025, as midfielder Víctor "Pocho" Guzmán will return to Pachuca on loan. The Guadalajara-born player leaves after a disappointing run with Chivas, where he never quite lived up to the high expectations placed on him upon his return.

Guzmán quickly became a key figure for Chivas and even captained the team, playing a major role in their run to the Clausura 2023 final, scoring in the second leg. However, his influence faded over time. A series of managerial changes and the arrival of Veljko Paunović led to Guzmán losing his place in the starting XI, and his minutes significantly dropped during the most recent campaign.

This marks a homecoming for Guzmán, who returns to a club where he is still widely respected by fans. Pachuca are preparing for a new era under former Mexico national team coach Jaime Lozano, following the departure of Guillermo Almada - and Guzmán could prove to be a vital piece as the Tuzos gear up for the FIFA Club World Cup.

Chivas, meanwhile, continue reshaping their roster. Luis Rey is also set to leave on loan, and while Efraín Álvarez has been the only official signing so far, midfielder Richard Ledezma finalized a move from PSV Eindhoven.

Guzmán, a product of Chivas’ youth system, originally joined Pachuca in 2017. During his time with the Tuzos, he became a club icon, featuring in 247 games and contributing 57 goals and 31 assists. His stellar form led to a highly anticipated comeback to Guadalajara in December 2022 - a move long sought by the club.

Pachuca will face FC Salzburg on June 18 in Cincinnati, Real Madrid on June 22 in Charlotte, and Al Hilal on June 26 in Nashville. The matches are part of their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup group stage schedule.