'Chicharito' Hernández named in Gabriel Milito’s squad for Liga MX showdown against Cruz Azul, ends four-month absence

Chivas will have a familiar face back on the field this weekend. Javier “Chicharito” Hernández has been named in Gabriel Milito’s squad list for Saturday’s Liga MX showdown against Cruz Azul, ending a four-month absence from competitive action.

Hernández has not featured since April 16, when he came off the bench in a 1-0 victory over Puebla. He later picked up a calf injury during the warm-up session before the team’s opening match of the Apertura 2025, forcing him into his longest spell on the sidelines since rejoining the club in 2024.

His return comes at a crucial moment for Guadalajara, who are battling injuries across their front line. Alan Pulido remain unavailable, while Armando González has been forced to carry much of the attacking burden on his own. Hernández’s experience and presence could prove decisive as Chivas aim to get back on track.

The Mexican forward had been the subject of speculation earlier this summer regarding a possible disciplinary issue, but the club clarified that his absence was strictly medical. Now fit again, “Chicharito” will be eager to make an impact as the Rojiblancos seek momentum heading into the heart of the tournament.

Chivas face a turbulent stretch in their schedule. After hosting Cruz Azul tonight, they will visit América in the Clásico Nacional before returning home to take on Tigres - two of the hottest teams in Liga MX.