Benji Kikanović
SJE
Right Back
Right Wingback
Possession Builder
Jan 6, 2000 (26)
Right
6'1"
165 lb
Back injured
Kikanovic (lower body) is back out for Wednesday's trip to Salt Lake, per the MLS Injury Report.
Analysis: Kikanovic is out for Wednesday's trip due to the same lower body injury that has plagued him in recent weeks. He returned to the bench last time out, but was unable to get on the pitch, and is now back on the injury report. It seems he may have aggravated the issue, but the club hasn't given an update.
On bench to face Rapids
Kikanovic (lower body) is in the match squad as a substitute option Saturday against Colorado Rapids.
Analysis: Kikanovic was questionable heading into this game as he dealt with some discomfort, which might be the reason why he's not starting. However, his replacement, Paul Marie, already produced an assist in the previous MLS contest, so there may be competition for the right wing-back spot going forward. Even though Kikanovic remains without a goal or assist this year, he could be a source of both attacking and defensive actions when he's on the pitch.
Questionable with lower body concern
Kikanovic is dealing with a lower body issue that puts his availability in doubt for upcoming matches.
Analysis: Kikanovic is the Earthquakes' most frequent right wing-back option, so losing him would be a significant blow, although he didn't start in the previous game, where his replacement, Paul Marie, delivered an assist. The extent of the injury is still unclear, but the fact that he's only listed as questionable suggests Kikanovic should not face a lengthy absence if he avoids any setback.
Whips in six crosses
Kikanovic had two shots (zero on goal), six crosses (one accurate) and one chance created in Saturday's 1-0 victory against Houston Dynamo. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 90th minute.
Analysis: Kikanovic was on the field for the full 90 minutes Saturday and had a decent contribution, earning himself a chance created, two shots and six crosses. However, he remains without a goal contribution all season, hoping to earn one soon after getting more of a wing-back role in the past two games. He remains solid defensively as well, notching two clearances, three interceptions and three tackles won.
Clears ban
Kikanovic has served his one match suspension and will make the trip to Austin on Saurday.
Analysis: Kikanovic is likely to return to the starting XI against Austin on Saturday after missing the Houston trip due to suspension. Since the World Cup break, he's started four matches, making 17 clearances and winning two tackles in that span.
Will miss trip to HOU
Kikanovic registered two crosses (zero accurate) and two tackles in Saturday's 5-1 defeat versus Minnesota United. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 85th minute and is set for a one match suspension.
Analysis: Kikanovic has picked up his fifth yellow card in seven matches, ruling him out of the clash with Houston. He was expected to start, so Jack Jasinski will likely step into the XI in his place. The defender has started all 17 appearances, a huge upgrade following his subpar 2025 season.
Defensive dominance
Kikanovic had one shot (zero on goal) and one cross (zero accurate) in Saturday's 1-1 draw against Vancouver Whitecaps FC. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 36th minute.
Analysis: Kikanovic led the San Jose defensive effort Saturday with five tackles (five won) and six clearances as they earned a share of the spoils in a 1-1 home draw versus Vancouver. Over his last five appearances (five starts), the full-back has averaged 1.2 tackles won and 4.8 clearances per appearance. In 10 starts (10 appearances), Kikanovic has played the full 90 minutes on eight occasions.
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