Kike García

Kike (hamstring) returned to individual training on the grass Thursday for the first time since undergoing surgery Aug. 5 on his right biceps femoris tendon, although he remains sidelined and has yet to resume team training, the club posted.

Analysis: Kike has been recovering from a serious hamstring injury sustained during preseason, with his initial recovery timeline estimated at three to four months following surgery. Thursday's return to field work represents an important milestone in his rehabilitation, but the veteran striker still has several stages to complete before rejoining his teammates and becoming available for selection. The 36-year-old recorded eight goals and one assist across 37 La Liga appearances last season, including 17 starts, establishing himself as an important attacking option for Espanyol. Roberto Fernandez and Alex Calatrava should continue benefiting from additional opportunities while Kike works toward his eventual return, with no updated timetable provided for his competitive comeback.

Aug 4, 2026

Receiving hamstring surgery

Kike is out for the next three to four months due to hamstring surgery, according to his club.

Analysis: Kike was forced off in the club's last friendly and will now miss time, as the veteran forward was diagnosed with a hamstring injury that needs surgery. This is a rough loss for the club as they will have to do without a starting forward for the first few months of the season, starting in 17 of his 37 appearances last campaign, while notching eight goals and one assist. That said, Roberto Fernandez and Alex Calatrava will likely see more time due to his absence.