La Liga 2025-2026: Girona-Rayo Vallecano, the probable formations

After the exploit two years ago, culminating in a historic Champions League qualification, Girona is back on its feet. Last season the Catalans had to fight for salvation, also complicit in the double weekly commitment to which they were not accustomed. Mission accomplished, however, with a 16th place finish.

On the bench remains Michel, one of the architects of the “Champions miracle,” but the roster has lost several key players on loan (Gutierrez, close to Napoli, is also close to departure). To restart, Girona relies on the experience of Lemar and Witsel, who arrived from Atletico Madrid, and the loans of Vitor Reis (Manchester City) and Rincon (Athletic Bilbao).

The new La Liga 2025/26 opens right with the red and white, who host Rayo Vallecano on Friday. The guests, eighth last year and qualified for the Conference League, arrive with good feelings: in the summer friendlies they collected two wins, a draw and a defeat. Inigo Perez is confirmed on the bench, while Luiz Felipe, a former Lazio player who has just returned from his experience at Marseille, has arrived from the market.

Probable lineups

Girona (4-2-3-1): Gazzaniga; Arnau, D. Lopez, Krejci, Blind; Solis, Herrera; Tsygankov, Asprilla, J. Roca; Stuani.

Rayo Vallecano (4-2-3-1): Batalla; Ratiu, Lejeune, Luiz Felipe, Chavarria; P. Ciss, Unai Lopez; Isi Palazon, Pedro Diaz, Alvaro; D. Frutos.