La Liga 2026–2027: Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano—Probable Lineups

It’s Barcelona’s turn, taking the field Monday evening at 9:30 p.m. in their La Liga Matchday 3 clash against Rayo Vallecano. The Blaugrana need to respond to Real Madrid, which remains undefeated after Sunday’s impressive victory over Málaga. Hansi Flick’s team easily won their first two matches against Elche and Athletic Bilbao, while Rayo, after losing their opener to Sevilla, drew at home against Alavés.

Flick, awaiting the arrival of Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal, could field a front three of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Gordon. In midfield, Rodri will partner with Pedri and Fermin, while Koundé and Cancelo will start at fullback.

De Frutos, Camello, and Álvaro García make up Rayo’s front three. The fullbacks are Ratiu and Balliu, with Óscar Valentín and Unai López playing in midfield.

Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano: Probable Lineups
Barcelona (4-3-3): Joan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Cancelo; Rodri, Pedri, Fermín; Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Gordon. Head Coach: Flick.
Rayo Vallecano (3-4-3): Cárdenas; Lejeune, Pelayo, Vetrouwd; Ratiu, Óscar Valentín, Unai López, Balliu; De Frutos, Camello, Álvaro García. Head Coach: San José.

At the press conference, Flick spoke about Lamine Yamal, who, after a lackluster World Cup, has also underperformed in the first two league matches: “Everyone is concerned about him, but he played in the World Cup after an injury and then had a three-week break. He’s played two games; the first one maybe wasn’t his best, but I’m happy because he gives us an extra man on the field and creates chances. He’s on the right track. We need to support him as he recovers, and that’s exactly what I’ll do.”