Return to Vallecas Amidst Turmoil
Rayo Vallecano de Madrid is set to make its long-awaited return to its home stadium, Vallecas, for the first time this season. The stadium has been cleared for sporting activity, marking a significant moment for the club and its supporters after being closed since May 2026 [1]. This return, however, is overshadowed by a series of off-field controversies. The club will file a formal complaint regarding vandalism and an attempted assault on the presidential box during a recent match against Cagliari [2]. Furthermore, Rayo Vallecano has announced legal actions against individuals responsible for vandalizing the stadium’s facade [3]. The stadium itself continues to be a point of contention, with eight areas requiring further action to meet compliance standards, and the club has been notified of these requirements [4]. Political figures have also voiced strong criticism regarding the management of the stadium, with some suggesting that Martín Presa is not capable of managing a new stadium [5].
Managerial Debut and Player Returns
The upcoming match will also mark the debut of Rayo Vallecano’s new coach, Beñat San José [1]. This managerial change comes at a critical time as the team navigates its return to home turf. On the player front, several key individuals who were previously sidelined due to the stadium’s closure are now fit and ready to play. Raúl de Tomás, Isi Palazón, and Álvaro García have all returned to training and are available for selection [6]. However, Sergio Camello, Óscar Valentín, and Jorge de Frutos are still out due to the previous stadium closure [1]. The return of these players, coupled with the new coaching direction, could provide a much-needed boost for Rayo Vallecano as they look to improve their standing in the league.
Athletic Club’s Squad Challenges
Athletic Club, Rayo Vallecano’s next opponent, faces its own set of squad challenges. Nico Williams is doubtful for the match against Rayo Vallecano due to a moderate thigh injury sustained while on international duty [7]. Further complicating matters, Laporte is out due to international duty and injury, and Djaló is also unavailable due to international duty and scheduled rest [7]. Unai Simón and Álex Padilla are also out due to international duty [6]. Despite these absences, Athletic Club sees the return of Vivian to the squad after two and a half months of injury treatment [7], and Unai López has also returned to training and is fit [6]. Prados and Rego, who have been unused so far this season, are also available and could feature [7]. Coach Terzic has called up 22 players for the derby, including several from the reserve team to complete the squad [6].
What it means
Rayo Vallecano currently sits in 12th position in La Liga with 8 points from 7 matches, having secured 2 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses. Their goal difference stands at 11 goals scored and 16 conceded. Recent form shows a mixed bag of results, with a draw against CA Osasuna (1-1), a home win against RCD Espanyol (2-1), a loss to Real Madrid (1-4), another home win against Real Racing Club de Santander (3-2), and a significant loss to FC Barcelona (2-5). This inconsistent form highlights the need for a strong performance as they return to their home ground. The upcoming fixture against Athletic Club on October 10th presents an opportunity to capitalize on their home advantage and the momentum of a new coach, especially given Athletic Club’s injury concerns. A positive result could help Rayo Vallecano climb the table and build confidence for the remainder of the season.
Sources
- Marca: El Rayo vuelve a Vallecas a lo grande marca.com ↩
- Marca: Asaltan el Estadio de Vallecas y vandalizan el palco marca.com ↩
- Marca: El Rayo se pronuncia sobre la limpieza de la fachada: "No es un acto de suciedad, sino de vandalismo" marca.com ↩
- Marca: Los ocho puntos que faltan por arreglar en el Estadio de Vallecas marca.com ↩
- Marca: El PP alza la voz: "Martín Presa no está capacitado para gestionar un nuevo estadio" marca.com ↩
- Marca: Terzic, con todos preparados para la EH Txapela marca.com ↩
- Marca: Terzic se lleva 22 jugadores a su primer derbi en Anoeta marca.com ↩
