Espanyol is set to host Rayo Vallecano this Sunday at RCDE Stadium, kicking off at 18:30 CET. The team aims for a crucial victory to secure their third consecutive win. This match is significant not only for maintaining their position in European qualification but also for alleviating tensions following a disappointing knockout in the Copa del Rey last Thursday.
Absence of Riedel
Adding to their challenges, Espanyol confirmed the last-minute absence of young center-back Riedel due to illness. This development affects the team’s defensive lineup as they prepare for their match against Rayo.
Espanyol’s Starting Lineup
Manager Manolo González has chosen a strong starting eleven for this crucial game, reverting to a more stable formation after recent experiments in the Copa. The starting players include:
- Dmitrovic
- Omar
- Calero
- Cabrera
- Romero
- Pol Lozano
- Urko
- Dolan
- Edu Expósito
- Pere Milla
- Roberto
Edu Expósito replaces Ramon Terrats in the only change from the last league match against Celta.
Bench Strength
On the bench, Espanyol will have the following players ready to contribute:
- Ángel Fortuño
- Rubén Sánchez
- José Salinas
- Ramon Terrats
- Miguel Rubio
- Koleosho
- Jofre Carreras
- Charles Pickel
- Kike García
- Antoniu Roca
- Javi Hernández
Rayo Vallecano’s Lineup
Rayo Vallecano, managed by Íñigo Pérez, will field the following players:
- Batalla
- Ratiu
- Mendy
- Lejeune
- Chavarria
- Gumbau
- Unai López
- Óscar Valentín
- Fran Pérez
- Isi
- De Frutos
As both teams approach this important match, Espanyol is eager to establish a strong home advantage in their final home game of the year.
