Barça face Rayo Vallecano this coming Sunday (9.30pm CEST) at the Estadio de Vallecas. It's the first test this season against a team competing in Europe. Here are five key facts that you need to put the game in context:

Same time, same place

Curiously, this clash coincides exactly with last season’s meeting. Rayo and Barça will again meet in the third weekend of the competition, and again at Vallecas, just like they did in the 2024/25 season. That game was a 2-1 win for Barça and marked Flick’s second comeback with the team.

Flick changing history

Although Barça won 2-1 last season, recent visits to Vallecas have not been particularly positive. In the last four trips, just one ended in a Barça win, one in a draw, and two in defeat. A second consecutive win at Vallecas would certainly indicate a change in the dynamic.

First 'European' fixture

Another highlight is that this will be Barça’s first test against a team playing in Europe this season. After 25 years, the Madrid-based side are back competing on the continental stage and are already playing in the qualifying round to reach the league phase of the Conference League. Because of that, Rayo are clearly more into their competitive rhythm and will hence be a big test for Barça.

Dangermen

De Frutos and Álvaro García are arguably the most dangerous players in the home ranks and the ones Barça will need to watch most closely. Last season, De Frutos was the team’s top scorer with six goals, while Álvaro García netted four. This season, both have already opened their accounts, having scored in the opening match against Girona.

Strong track records

Rayo are among the favourite opponents for both Pedri and Lewandowski. In the last five meetings, the Canary Islander and the Pole have each scoring three goals against the team with the iconic red band, making them the current squad’s top scorers against them. Both scored in last season’s encounters: Pedri in the 2-1 win on the road and Lewandowski in the 1-0 victory at the Estadi Olímpic.

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