Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano – Predicted lineup and team news

Barcelona are set to face Rayo Vallecano in their second La Liga match of the season on Monday, August 31st at the Spotify Camp Nou. Under manager Hansi Flick, the Spanish giants have started their campaign strongly with two opening wins, currently sitting atop the table.

Having secured a 5-0 victory at Elche and then a 2-0 home win over Athletic Club, Barcelona's attack looks formidable. However, the team news brings a shift in the predicted lineup. Midfielders Gavi and Frenkie de Jong are both sidelined, with Gavi ruled out for the season due to a knee injury and de Jong recovering from a persistent knee problem. Additionally, Roony Bardghji and Marc Casadó are also out long-term.

Despite these setbacks, Lamine Yamal is fully fit and ready to start, while Rodri, a new signing, is pushing for his first start following a brief substitute appearance last week. The potential starting lineup for Barcelona includes J. Garcia, three central defenders, Rodri in midfield, Pedri, Yamal, Lopez, and the ever-reliable Raphinha. The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:30pm BST on the aforementioned Monday. In the UK, viewers can catch all the action on Premier Sports 1.