Rayo Vallecano vs Villarreal Preview: La Liga Clash on May 17, 2026

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 arrive in 3rd place on 69 points and a goal difference of 24.

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. I. Balliu (Injury) is doubtful. Álvaro García (Injury) is doubtful. G. Gumbau (Injury) is doubtful. Jorge de Frutos, their leading league scorer with 10 goals, is available and expected to carry much of the attacking threat.

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. P. Cabanes (Convalescence) is doubtful. Key attacking figures G. Mikautadze (12 goals, 6 assists) and Alberto Moleiro (10 goals, 5 assists) are both available.

Impact Summary

Rayo’s absences mainly hit their defensive structure and wide options, potentially limiting supply to de Frutos in a side that has scored 37 league goals. Villarreal lose defensive depth and a suspended utility defender, but retain the core of an attack that has produced 67 goals, leaving their offensive output largely intact.