Alberto Medina: From Culiacán to Guadalajara’s history books | OneFootball

Today, the Red-and-White Nation is celebrating! Alberto “Venado” Medina turns 43, as we look back on the story of a footballer who left his mark on Chivas thanks to his talent, speed, and commitment on the pitch. Becoming one of the most beloved players among the Red-and-White fans, he was a key part of the 2006 Apertura title and the star of many unforgettable moments wearing the Guadalajara shirt, which he always defended with pride and passion.

That’s why, below, we revisit his career and some of his greatest moments with the team he loves.

Alberto “Venado” Medina’s beginnings in football

Originally from Culiacán, Sinaloa, “Venado” began his journey in football at a very young age, when his mother took him to play at just 6 years old. His first steps came on neighborhood pitches and with the Autonomous University of Sinaloa, where he began to stand out until he became part of the Sinaloa State Team.

One of the most special memories of his childhood was his first goal, scored directly from a corner kick on his mother’s birthday, a dedication he still cherishes to this day.

“Venado’s” path to the Red-and-White Academy

Little by little, he established himself in Sinaloan football, a stage that boosted his sporting development. His professional adventure began at Cruz Azul, where he spent close to eight months in the youth development process.

However, before signing a contract in the Third Division with La Máquina, he was called up to train with the Mexico U-17 and U-20 National Teams. It was precisely there that “Güero” Real spotted his talent and opened the door for him to join the Red-and-White Academy. Without thinking twice, Medina accepted the opportunity to play for the team he loved. Beyond the footballing challenge, there was also a strong emotional bond, since his entire family supported the Sacred Flock.

After signing with the club’s Red-and-White Third Division team, he went through the traditional rookie hazing in the locker room, including having his head shaved. During that time, he shared the dressing room with standouts such as Omar Bravo, Francisco Javier “Maza” Rodríguez, and Jonny Magallón.

How the nickname “Venado” was born

The famous nickname was born during his first training sessions with the first team. Joel “Tiburón” Sánchez, surprised by his speed and dynamism, called him that because of how quickly he moved his legs while playing football.

Over time, the nickname went beyond the locker room and ended up becoming popular thanks to “Perro” Bermúdez during television broadcasts.

Alberto Medina’s debut with Chivas

His First Division debut came on August 20, 2000, against León, when he came on as a substitute for Benjamín Galindo at Estadio Jalisco. Although Guadalajara fell 3-1, that match marked the beginning of an unforgettable story with the Sacred Flock.

Thanks to his breakout as a footballer, Medina also became one of Guadalajara’s youngest scorers in official competitions, finding the net in Liga MX at just 18 years, 7 months, and 15 days old.

The assist that defined the 2006 Apertura title

In the second leg of the Final, after Guadalajara fell behind in the first half, “Maza” Rodríguez leveled the match in the opening minutes of the second half at the Nemesio Diez. That was when Alberto “Venado” Medina delivered one of the most important plays of his career, setting up Adolfo “Bofo” Bautista for the goal that made it 2-1 and put Guadalajara on the path to the title.

That play was forever etched in the memory of the Red-and-White Nation and cemented “Venado” as one of the most beloved and important players of that generation. That is why today the entire Red-and-White Nation wishes you: Happy birthday, “Venado”!

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.