'One of Chivas’ few true leaders' - Club legend Adolfo Bautista slams reported Fernando 'Nene' Beltrán transfer

After a disappointing Clausura 2025 in which they finished 11th in the standings, Chivas have wasted no time reshaping their squad for the upcoming Liga MX season. With preseason already underway, significant changes are starting to unfold, both on the bench and on the pitch.

Reports suggest that Gabriel Milito has reached an agreement to become the new head coach, generating excitement among fans, and the club is also preparing to part ways with a key figure in the locker room. Midfielder Fernando "Nene" Beltrán is reportedly on the verge of joining León, a move that has stirred controversy.

Adolfo "Bofo" Bautista, one of Chivas' most iconic former players, voiced his disapproval on social media. Posting to Instagram, Bautista wrote: "I hope that report isn’t true. You can’t let go of one of Chivas’ few true leaders. He’s a great player.”

The former star has frequently criticized the team’s direction, especially during a Clausura campaign marred by poor results and questionable decisions.

If Beltrán does indeed transfer, it would mark the second major departure this offseason, following Mateo Chávez’s confirmed move to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. While PSV Eindhoven’s Richard Ledezma is reportedly close to joining the club, no official announcement has been made, leaving the roster short on reinforcements.

Meanwhile, left-back Bryan González of Pachuca has emerged as a possible target, though negotiations remain in the early stages.

As the summer window progresses, fans will be eager to see how Chivas rebuild under new leadership - and whether the team can return to Liguilla contention in the Apertura 2025.

Beltrán has been one of the few consistently reliable players for Chivas in recent years. Since making his debut in 2017, the homegrown midfielder has appeared in 245 matches, contributing 15 goals and 13 assists. His steady performances have made him a standout in an inconsistent squad.

As Chivas look to rebuild ahead of the Apertura 2025, the idea of parting ways with one of their most influential figures raises questions. Beltrán, known as "El Nene," is currently valued at around $5 million, according to Transfermarkt.

El Rebaño will kick off their Leagues Cup campaign on July 31 against the New York Red Bulls. The group stage will also see them face MLS sides Charlotte FC and FC Cincinnati.