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In a move that shook the Lake Chapala soccer scene, Cristopher Segura, the leading scorer in the Copa Jalisco soccer tournament, has officially joined the Ixtlahuacán de los Membrillos team for the current season.
Segura, 29, was a key player for Team Chapala. He said he left to seek better financial support and job stability offered by Ixtlahuacán.In an interview with Semanario Laguna, Segura said he received several offers, including interest from Team Jocotepec. He chose Ixtlahuacán due to personal and professional ties there.
“I wanted to show gratitude to the people of Ixtlahuacán,” Segura said. “They have supported me with work, and I have important friends there.”
The striker said money was an important factor in his decision. He said his priority is the well-being of his wife and children. Segura added that he did not receive sufficient financial support while playing for Chapala.
Despite the sports rivalry, Segura said his former teammates in Chapala supported his decision. Coach Isaac Saldívar also respected the move and wished him success. But the transfer has sparked debate on social media. Segura said he is used to criticism. Earlier in his career, he played in Pachuca’s youth system and later with the Charales de Chapala in Mexico’s Third Division.
“Of course it hurts to see the comments, especially from people you know,” Segura said. “But you have to be strong. If it happens in professional soccer, we have to be ready for it to happen here, too.”
Segura made an immediate impact with his new team. He entered as a substitute in the second half during a 7–0 win over Acatic. Despite being last tournament’s top scorer, Segura said he is ready to earn his place.
“I’m ready for the challenge, even if I have to start from the bench,” he said.
Translated and edited by Dana Davis
