Santos Laguna loses one of its most experienced defenders just before the start of the Apertura 2026 in Liga MX. The club announced on Tuesday the temporary departure of Kevin Balanta, who will join Independiente Santa Fe in Colombia as a reinforcement for manager Pablo Repetto. The move comes after an agreement between both parties, marking the end of Balanta’s stint in Mexico.
What happened to Kevin Balanta at Santos Laguna?
The defender played for the Guerreros between the Apertura 2025 and Clausura 2026, gaining experience in Mexico’s top flight. Santos Laguna thanked him in an official statement: “The Club thanks Kevin Balanta and wishes him success in this new professional challenge.” Balanta leaves with over 150 official matches under his belt, having also played for Tijuana and Querétaro over seven seasons.
Why does Balanta’s exit matter for Santos Laguna?
The loss comes at a critical time for the team, which sits 18th in Liga MX with just 12 points from 17 games, a record of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 11 losses. With an average of 20 goals scored and 38 conceded, Santos Laguna must reinforce its squad to climb the table and close the gap to leaders U.N.A.M. Pumas, who lead by 24 points. Their next test is on August 6, 2026, when they face New York City FC away.
What’s next for Kevin Balanta in Colombia?
The midfielder returns to Independiente Santa Fe after a brief stint at Argentina’s Defensa y Justicia in early 2025. His arrival aims to strengthen the Colombian side for both the domestic league and potential international fixtures. Balanta brings experience from leagues in Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina, giving him a versatile profile for his new team.
Santos Laguna, meanwhile, must find defensive reinforcements before the Apertura 2026 kicks off to cover the loss of a player with over 150 Liga MX appearances and a 3W-3D-11L record in his last season with the Guerreros.
