Barcelona Set to Extend Home Undefeated Streak Against Rayo Vallecano

FC Barcelona will take on Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Monday.

Xinhua News Agency via Getty Images

Coach Hansi Flick is expected to field the same starting lineup that secured a victory over Athletic Club when Barcelona hosts Rayo Vallecano at the Spotify Camp Nou on Monday evening.

Barcelona maintained an unbeaten home record in La Liga last season, remaining undefeated at the Camp Nou since its reopening in November 2025.

Rayo Vallecano, which has recorded one loss and one draw in the 2026/27 campaign and is struggling at its own stadium, aims to disrupt Barcelona’s home streak.

Maintaining the same lineup means goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who has kept two clean sheets so far this season, will start between the posts.

The defensive line will feature Xavi Espart at left‑back (replacing Alejandro Balde) and Joao Cancelo, with Gerard Martin and Pau Cubarsi as centre‑backs and Eric Garcia at right‑back.

Rodri remains unavailable, so Marc Bernal will act as the lone midfield pivot supporting Pedri and Fermin López.

The attacking trio includes Anthony Gordon, who received a standing ovation on Raphinha’s left flank, while the Brazilian Raphinha (joint top scorer with Fermin) occupies the central striker role.

An anticipated signing of Gabriel Jesus is expected to offer competition for the striker position, allowing his compatriot to rest when needed.

Until then, captain Raphinha is forming a solid partnership with Gordon, while Lamine Yamal on the right wing continues to show improvement.

Lamine Yamal’s performance against Athletic Club was stronger than his display at Elche, where Barcelona recorded a 5‑0 away victory.

After hitting the woodwork against the Basques, he could convert that chance into a goal against Rayo, as Barcelona seeks its third consecutive win and keep pressure on league leaders Real Madrid.

FC Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano Starting XI: Joan; Espart, Gerard, Cubarsi, Eric; Bernal; Pedri, Fermin; Gordon, Raphinha, Lamine

What FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick said

“We have to manage all the players well. Many of them come from playing a lot of minutes in the World Cup. Everyone wants to play, but no one is above the team. Neither me nor any player. The team is number one. It is good news that the level is so high. If we want to achieve our goals, this is very important,”

Kick‑off is scheduled for 21:30 local time in Spain.

Source link