Cucho Hernández Set to Return for Betis in Upcoming Match

omidbasir- After a week of regular training with his teammates, Cucho Hernández is expected to be a notable inclusion in Manuel Pellegrini’s squad for the 25th matchday of LaLiga EA Sports. Following his recovery from a muscle injury sustained in mid-January during his team’s visit to Carlos Tartiere in Oviedo, Hernández is set to participate in tomorrow’s match at Estadio de La Cartuja against Rayo Vallecano.

The Colombian forward took to social media to express his excitement about returning: “Very happy to be back. See you soon at La Cartuja, Beticos.” While his return is significant, it does not guarantee a spot in the starting XI, especially with the upcoming derby against Sevilla next week. However, it does allow Pellegrini to have all of his forwards available after several weeks.

In addition to Cucho, Argentine forward Chimy Ávila also appears ready to return after a brief absence due to muscle discomfort experienced during a Copa del Rey match against Atlético de Madrid. Both players will compete for a starting position with Congolese striker Cédric Bakambu, who recently scored a stunning goal against Mallorca. Following a tumultuous winter transfer window, Bakambu aims to reestablish rapport with the home crowd.

The main uncertainty regarding the squad selection lies with Héctor Bellerín, who has been gradually training with the team. While he began the week with limited participation, it remains to be seen if the coaching staff deems him fit for inclusion or if he requires additional time to prepare, especially with an intense March schedule ahead, including the derby next week and the Europa League Round of 16.

Injuries continue to affect the squad, with Amrabat, Isco, and Lo Celso still sidelined. Amrabat is expected to return early next week after completing the first phase of his recovery in the Netherlands following ankle arthroscopy. In contrast, Lo Celso faces several more weeks on the sidelines due to a significant muscle injury sustained during the team’s visit to PAOK Thessaloniki in January.

As for Isco, medical staff and coaches are evaluating his condition on a daily basis. The Malaga native is making steady progress in his daily gym workouts, yet no specific timeline for his return to the pitch has been established. His return will ultimately depend on his progress, with a collaborative decision involving the player, medical staff, and Pellegrini to determine the best time to increase training intensity without rushing the process.