Álex Fernández

Espanyol Fernández left Real Madrid in August 2013, by mutual consent. He signed shortly after with RCD Espanyol in the top level, appearing in 30 competitive matches in his first year but starting in only five.

On 28 January 2015, Espanyol loaned Fernández to HNK Rijeka until the end of the season. On 18 August, he joined Championship club Reading on loan, with a view to a permanent move at the end of the campaign. He scored his first goal for them on 19 January 2016, in a 5–2 home win against Huddersfield Town in the third round of the FA Cup.

Elche and Cádiz On 31 August 2016, shortly after terminating his contract with Espanyol, due to expire the following year, Fernández signed for Elche CF. The following 7 August, after suffering relegation, he agreed to a two-year deal at fellow Segunda División team Cádiz CF.

With a total of 11 goals, Fernández was his team's top scorer in 2019. He scored 13 during the season from 41 appearances, in a return to the top flight as runners-up.

In 2020–21, Fernández contributed four goals – bettered in the team only by Álvaro Negredo's eight – as the Andalusian side stayed up in 12th place; he missed the final two months with a right knee injury. On 6 June 2022, he extended his contract until 2025.

Personal life Fernández's older brother, Nacho, is also a footballer. A defender, he also graduated from Real Madrid's academy but remained there while Álex moved on. Their physical appearance is quite dissimilar, owing to Álex's red hair.

Career statistics

Honours Real Madrid Castilla Segunda División B: 2011–12

Individual UEFA European Under-19 Championship Golden Player: 2011