The former Galaxy stars out to help revitalize Chivas

“I’m a technically sound midfielder. I bring intensity, and I want to help my teammates be better. I want to score goals, but my main goal is to help the team win.”

Those were Daniel Aguirre’s first words upon signing with Chivas Guadalajara in June 2024. It took nearly a year - and four different full-time head coaches - for the 26-year-old midfielder to finally break out of the bench and onto the pitch.

Aguirre opens Chivas account

On July 5, Aguirre scored his first goal against Necaxa. And this past Saturday, he made good on his promise, delivering a key assist to Cade Cowell that sparked a comeback later completed by Armando González.

Starting in central midfield, Aguirre made his presence felt in several key moments. In the 19th minute, he narrowly missed with a header that sailed just over the bar. His substitution later in the match marked a noticeable dip in Chivas’ defensive structure.

In roughly 135 minutes of action with El Rebaño, Aguirre has shown he can be a reliable option in midfield rotations - especially when Chivas lines up with a double pivot.

Álvarez wastes no time in impressing

Meanwhile, Efraín Álvarez has already made a splash of his own. After scoring a stunner in preseason, it’s taken just two matches in the Apertura 2025 for the former Xolos man to emerge as Chivas’ top signing.

He was the most dangerous player on the field in the second half against León, and against San Luis, he played a direct role in both the third and fourth goals.

His ball-striking, ability to carry the ball between lines, and incisive passing are all qualities Chivas had been lacking - making him a strong candidate to become the creative engine the team has been searching for.

From MLS to Liga MX

After their time with the L.A. Galaxy, Álvarez and Aguirre now find themselves reunited - this time wearing the historic red and white of Chivas.

Both players were born in the United States and developed within the Galaxy’s system. Now, they bring that international experience to a Chivas side that’s increasingly open to Mexican-Americans eager to represent one of the country’s most iconic clubs.

Álvarez made his professional debut at just 15 with L.A. Galaxy II in the USL Championship and quickly rose to prominence as one of North America’s most promising young talents. He went on to play over 100 matches with the Galaxy’s first team, tallying six goals and six assists between 2019 and 2023, before moving to the Liga MX with Club Tijuana.

Aguirre, a Redwood City native, also came up through Galaxy II. Though more understated in style, he proved to be a dependable presence.

Operating as a box-to-box or interior midfielder, he logged two goals and two assists in 51 MLS appearances - modest numbers, but enough to earn him a role as a valuable squad player. His 2023 season marked his peak in terms of minutes and impact.

Together, Álvarez and Aguirre represent a new wave of California-born talent shaped by the Galaxy’s system - now making their mark in Guadalajara. As Chivas continues to embrace Mexican players born abroad, these two could be key figures in bridging cultures and elevating the club’s midfield.

Related stories

Liga MX

LaLiga club out to sign Monterrey star: the latest on the transfer tussle

Liga MX

European stars ‘invade’ Liga MX

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.