After the glory of two years ago, when it reached heights never before achieved in its history by qualifying for the Champions League, Girona is back down to earth. Last season, the Catalans fell back into the ranks, ending up fighting for survival in the top flight. However, they managed to stay up, finishing in 16th place, in a season that was also affected by the double weekly commitment, which they were not used to at all in these parts.
One of the architects of the Champions League dream, Michel, is still in charge, but several players on loan have left Catalonia (Gutierrez is also close to joining Napoli). Girona is counting on the experience of Lemar and Witsel, both from Atletico Madrid, as well as the loans of Vitor Reis and Rincon (Manchester City and Athletic Bilbao). Michel and his men will open the 2025-26 La Liga season alongside Rayo Vallecano, who are looking to build on last season’s excellent eighth-place finish, which earned them a historic qualification for the Conference League. Two wins, one draw, and one defeat: that is the record of the Madrid side, still led by Inigo Perez, in their preseason friendlies. The main signing so far is former Lazio player Luiz Felipe, who spent last season at Marseille.
Prediction
Two teams still finding their feet, which are likely to produce a balanced and hard-fought contest. For now, Rayo look the more certain of the two: the Matagigantes should at least avoid defeat.
Probable line-ups for Girona-Rayo Vallecano
GIRONA (4-2-3-1): Gazzaniga; Arnau, D. Lopez, Krejci, Blind; Solis, Herrera; Tsygankov, Asprilla, J. Roca; Stuani.
RAYO VALLECANO (4-2-3-1): Batalla; Ratiu, Lejeune, Luiz Felipe, Chavarria; P. Ciss, Unai Lopez; Isi Palazon, Pedro Diaz, Alvaro; D. Frutos.
Odds comparison
Villarreal’s victory is priced at 1.35 on Lottomatica and Snai. A “Goal” in Girona-Rayo Vallecano is priced at 1.80 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and 1.77 on Snai.
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