Rayo Vallecano vs Villarreal: La Liga Match Preview

Match Context

Rayo Vallecano host Villarreal at Campo de Futbol de Vallecas in Madrid on 17 May 2026, in La Liga Regular Season - 37. Rayo sit 10th on 44 points with a goal difference of -6, while Villarreal are 3rd on 69 points and +24, pushing for Champions League qualification.

Rayo Vallecano Availability

Rayo face a lengthy absentee list. Ilias Akhomach (Muscle Injury) is sidelined. Luiz Felipe (Injury) is sidelined. D. Mendez (Knee Injury) is sidelined. Isi Palazón (Red Card) is sidelined through suspension. In addition, several key names are doubtful: I. Balliu (Injury) is doubtful, A. Garcia (Injury) is doubtful, and G. Gumbau (Injury) is doubtful. Top scorer Jorge de Frutos, with 10 league goals, is available to lead the attack.

Villarreal Availability

Villarreal also have concerns at the back and in midfield. J. Foyth (Achilles Tendon Injury) is sidelined. R. Veiga (Yellow Cards) is sidelined due to suspension. P. Cabanes (Convalescence) is doubtful. Their leading attacking threats G. Mikautadze (12 goals, 6 assists) and Alberto Moleiro (10 goals, 5 assists) are both available.

Impact Summary

Rayo’s absences mainly weaken their defensive structure and wing options, potentially reducing supply to de Frutos. Villarreal lose defensive stability and a suspended midfielder but retain the bulk of their attacking output, preserving a strong goal threat.