The Rojiblanca Academy Starts AP26 on the Right Foot! | OneFootball

Every weekend, the work carried out by the Cantera Rojiblanca across all its age groups continues to bear fruit. The start of the Apertura 2026 was no exception, as Guadalajara's U-21 and U-19 sides earned valuable points against Toluca on Matchday 1 while providing plenty of encouraging signs about the club's present and future.

Anwar Ben Rhouma: An Immediate Impact

Having only recently joined Guadalajara, Anwar Ben Rhouma wasted no time showing why he was recruited by the Cantera Rojiblanca. In his U-21 debut, he scored his first goal as a Rojiblanco with an excellent finish, immediately showcasing his ability to attack space, create danger and appear in the box with the goalscoring instinct that defines his game.

Leonel Calderón Continues to Raise His Hand

Another player who continues to confirm his development is Leonel Calderón. After completing preseason with the First Team under Gabriel Milito, the young defender once again delivered for the U-21 side by scoring a spectacular long-range goal against Toluca, displaying the quality and personality that set him apart.

At just 18 years old, Leonel continues to take important steps in his development and is proving himself to be one of the brightest young talents coming through Guadalajara.

The Next Generation Is Pushing Through

The U-19 side also began the Apertura 2026 on the right foot by defeating Toluca 1-0. The winning goal came from Gerson Gutiérrez, who found space inside the box and finished with composure to secure the Rebaño's first three points of the campaign, further highlighting the development of another promising talent emerging from the Cantera Rojiblanca.

The opening weekend of the tournament once again showcased the work Guadalajara continues to do in identifying, developing and maximizing the country's best young footballers. The performances of Anwar Ben Rhouma, Leonel Calderón and Gerson Gutiérrez are just a glimpse of the talent strengthening the Cantera Rojiblanca, with all three aiming to play an important role throughout the Apertura 2026.