Gilberto ‘Tiba’ Sepúlveda has joined FC Juárez on loan for the 2026 Apertura, ending a 13-year spell at Chivas where he lost first-team minutes under Gabriel Milito. The 27-year-old defender aims to regain regular playtime in a team currently 12th in Liga MX with 19 points (5W-4D-8L), 17 behind leaders UNAM-Pumas, and with a goal difference of -6 (26 scored, 32 conceded).

Why is Sepúlveda leaving Chivas?

Sepúlveda’s departure wasn’t unexpected: since Gabriel Milito took charge, the defender lost his starting spot. Chivas, focused on rebuilding for a title push, prioritized signings like Kevin Castañeda and Jordan Carrillo, alongside the return of players such as Raúl Rangel and Roberto ‘Piojo’ Alvarado after the 2026 World Cup.

The central defender, born in Guasave, Sinaloa, rose through Chivas’ youth ranks before making his professional debut. With 8 caps for Mexico, his international experience makes him a valuable target for Juárez, which needs defensive reinforcement. The move, discussed for weeks, was finalized before the Apertura kicked off.

What does this signing mean for Juárez?

For FC Juárez, Sepúlveda’s arrival is a bet on experience. The loan deal with a buy option lets them assess his performance in the 2026 Apertura, a tournament where the team seeks stability after a shaky start (recent form: WLLLD). The defender, a Chivas stalwart, could be pivotal in a squad aiming to improve its defensive record and climb the table.

What’s next for Sepúlveda and Juárez?

Sepúlveda posted a heartfelt farewell: «With Chivas, I’ll always be grateful. It was my home for 13 years». Now, he must adapt to Juárez, where he’ll compete for a starting spot in a team struggling to break through (19 points, 17 behind leaders). Meanwhile, Chivas continues reshaping its squad, chasing a title last won in 2012.

Key stats (as of July 14, 2026): Juárez sits 12th in Liga MX with 19 points (5 wins, 4 draws, 8 losses). Their recent form (WLLLD) shows inconsistency, but Sepúlveda’s arrival could stabilize their defense and narrow the gap to the top.