Rayo Vallecano scored twice at Estadio de Vallecas when they faced Barcelona earlier this season, albeit on two different ends of the field.
An own goal from Florian Lejeune cancelled out Unai Lopez’s opener in the 82nd minute to give the Catalans a draw, but the match left fans with an understanding of just how threatening Rayo can be when in full flow.
Come Sunday, the two teams will meet again in La Liga, this time in the penultimate round of the competition with not much remaining to fight for.
The game will still be hard-fought, nevertheless, with Inigo Perez’s side desperate to earn at least a more respectable finish on the league standings.
Barça Universal bring you three talking points ahead of Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano.
Tumultuous politics
The past 48 hours in Catalonia have seen a serious escalation of internal politics in the Barcelona offices, and the sequelae spoken of could detrimentally impact the team’s planning ahead.
Jolted by Xavi’s recent comments in a recent press conference, the club president and his board are furious and are said to be close to sacking the manager very soon.
Considering that the manager’s continuity was only announced less than a month ago, the sudden change in the club’s stance can only be termed as a hellish situation that serves no party any good.
Twelve hours ago, it was uncertain if Xavi would even oversee the Catalans’ clash against Rayo Vallecano with an immediate sacking spoken of.
No conclusion was reached in yesterday’s meeting, however, and the Spanish tactician will live to see another match from the sidelines.
With such uncertainty looming over the managerial position in Catalonia and multiple forces aligned against the coach, tomorrow could well be one of, if not the last game Xavi oversees for Barcelona.
Sealing the spot
Heading into the clash of the season, there is not much left for Barcelona to fight for except the second spot in La Liga. That in itself, however, is vital for the…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/three-talking-points-ahead-of-barcelona-vs-rayo-vallecano-2/
Author : Adithya Eshwarla
Publish date : 2024-05-18 19:02:21
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