Rayo Vallecano vs Real Madrid: Match preview

Real Madrid return to La Liga action as they take on Rayo Vallecano at the Estadio de Vallecas on matchday 17.

Los Blancos were boosted by Eduardo Camavinga’s return but will be without the services of Kylian Mbappe for this fixture.

It is unclear whether Camavinga will start from the bench or the lineup due to the recent emergence of Dani Ceballos in midfield and the performances of Arda Güler and Luka Modric.

Fede Valverde, as always, seems certain to start, and Jude Bellingham, if fully fit, is an obvious choice.

Rodrygo is one player who will look to turn the tide in his favour and be more involved on the attacking front. He has blown hot and cold since a return from injury and will have yet another chance as the Brazilian will partner with his counterpart and Brahim up front.

Speaking of the other Brazilian, Vinicius was seemingly not fully fit for the Atalanta game as it was evident in the opening half when he seemed to not indulge in take ons.

But the second half, he turned the switch on and showed what he is capable of doing. In Mbappe’s absence, the Brazilian will be relied upon for goals.

Their opponents, Rayo Vallecano sit on 12th in the table, with five wins and six losses so far. They average just a goal per game, scoring 15 in 15 games so far.

Defensively, Rayo are stubborn and tough – as acknowledged by Carlo Ancelotti in the pre-match presser, having conceded 16 goals so far.

On the attacking front, they do not rely on a single player in fact, there have been minor contributions from each player.

Former Real Madrid B striker, Jorge De Frutos is their leading goal scorer with 3, followed by Unai Lopez and Sergio Camello with 2 each.

Isi Palazon is Vallecano’s architect in midfield. The 29-year old Spaniard possesses the experience and skills to surprise any team as a reliable playmaker.

This will not be an easy game by any means for Carlo Ancelotti’s side but the Merengues possess the brilliance to overcome this challenge.

A win here would be important as the La Liga title race is heating up with Atletico Madrid also sniffing an opportunity with a game in hand like Real Madrid.

The Vikings failed to beat Rayo last season, managing only two draws. Their last win came at the end of the 2022/23 campaign. This is a drought Real Madrid would be eager to end in tonight’s match.