We are all set for another exciting clash in La Liga, with FC Barcelona heading to Vallecas to face Rayo Vallecano this Tuesday. With two consecutive victories, Barça is eager for a third win that could take them to the top of the table. The anticipation surrounding this match is also fueled by the possible debut of Dani Olmo, as his registration has recently been confirmed.
Barcelona started the season with impressive performances, leaving fans optimistic. Under the leadership of Hansi Flick, the team has adopted new tactics, and the results are already evident. We saw Valencia and Athletic Club fall to Barça's new strategy, and now it's Rayo's turn to test their strength against a confident Barcelona side. The match is set for 21:30, and you can bet it will be a high-intensity showdown.
After two convincing victories, the team enters this match with plenty of momentum. Flick's high-press tactics are fitting in well—defensively, they are solid, and offensively, faster and more efficient, just as the coach prefers. It's clear that Barça is evolving, and the results so far are promising.
But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Vallecas is a tough place to play, with its compact field often making life difficult for visiting teams. Barcelona will need to be sharp and precise if they want to replicate their recent performances. The smaller pitch may also mean that Barça's high press becomes even more effective, but only if executed perfectly.
Analysis of Barça's Likely Starting XI
As for the starting lineup, Flick is not expected to make many changes, even with just three days of rest since the last match. The big question in defense is whether Flick will give Cubarsí or Iñigo Martínez a break and put Eric García on the field. Given García's uncertain situation at the club, this is a tough decision for the coach.
In midfield, Fermín López could earn his first start of the season after a good performance as a substitute against Athletic. It’s also possible that Marc Bernal will be rested, with Casadó taking his spot, especially considering that Casadó did not start last weekend. Pedri, on the other hand, should start again as he looks to regain full form.
In attack, the only possible change would be Raphinha moving to the left wing, replacing Ferran Torres. With Fermín back, Flick will have to make a tough decision, and Ferran, who has yet to find his rhythm, may be the one to make way. Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal and Lewandowski are expected to continue leading the attack.
Dani Olmo's Debut: Will It Happen?
The big question remains Dani Olmo. Expectations are high, but as of now, there’s no certainty about his presence on the field. He did not play against Athletic, and there’s still a chance his debut could be delayed. If he’s available, he might start on the bench, but don’t rule out a possible surprise in the starting lineup.
While we await Olmo's status, we must not forget the injury concerns. Andreas Christensen is out until October, and the absences of Gavi, Ansu Fati, Frenkie de Jong, and Ronald Araújo continue to weigh on the team. Ansu is the only one who might return soon, while De Jong's recovery is progressing, although his ankle remains a concern.
Vallecas: A Tough Place for Barça
Regardless of who takes the field, Barcelona will need to give their best. Vallecas has been a difficult stadium for Barça since 2018. They haven't won there since a 3-2 victory in November 2018. Rayo Vallecano has been a stumbling block for the Catalan team in recent visits, with one win and two draws in the last three encounters.
Rayo is also not just waiting—they started the season strong. They surprised everyone with a 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad in their opener and drew with Getafe in the second match, remaining unbeaten. They will be eager to extend that streak against a Barcelona that knows it cannot afford to slip if it wants to win at Vallecas for the first time in six years.
