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

Sunday on the 22nd day of La Liga opens with the match between Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano. Kickoff at 2 p.m. at the Santiago Bernabeu. Blancos called upon to answer Barcelona, victorious in Elche and now -4 in the standings, while the guests, coming off two straight knockouts, have only a one-point margin over the relegation zone.

Arbeloa has a single doubt in the offensive trident where Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz are vying for a 1′ shirt, along with Mbappé and Vincius. In midfield, Tchouameni in the booth, with Arda Güler and Bellingham on either side of him, defense headed by the Asencio-Huijsen pair.

Perez is banking on De Frutos in attack, with Palazon behind him in the three-quarter, complemented by Akhomach and Garcia. Midfield dike formed by Ciss and Pedro Diaz, in defense Ratiu, favored over Pacha, and Chavarria will act as full-backs.

Probable lineups

Real Madrid (4-3-3): Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Huijsen, Carreras; Güler, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius. Coach: Arbeloa.

Rayo Vallecano (4-3-3): Batalla; Ratiu, Lejeune, Mendy, Chavarria; Ciss, Diaz; Akhomach, Palazon, Garcia; De Frutos. Coach: Perez.