Kike Olivera returns to Bahia squad ahead of Ba-Vi derby

Esporte Clube Bahia has reintegrated striker Kike Olivera into the squad following a failed transfer negotiation with the Uruguayan club Nacional-URU. After a period of individual training and absence from team activities during transfer talks, the player has returned to training with the group.

Football director Carlos Eduardo Santoro confirmed that manager Rogério Ceni has decided to include Olivera as an option for the upcoming Ba-Vi derby against Vitória. The club considers the transfer matter closed and believes the player can contribute to the team during the final stretch of the season. Olivera, who has two goals and two assists in 25 matches this season, views the match as an opportunity to rebuild his relationship with the supporters.

Olivera's return comes amid offensive absences for Bahia, including Ademir, who is sidelined with a muscle injury, and Kauê Furquim, who was called up to the Brazil U-17 national team.