Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona preview - Barca wary of Rayo threat

Posted Friday, October 03, 2014 by PA

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has warned his side not to expect an easy return to Primera Division action against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday as they look to bounce back from their midweek European setback.

Barca saw their impressive unbeaten start under new coach Luis Enrique come to an end on Tuesday when they were defeated 3-2 by Paris St Germain in the Champions League.

That was not only Barca's first loss of the season, but it was also the first goals they had conceded after winning six of their opening seven matches, and the Catalan giants will be desperate to get back on track this weekend.

However, Luis Enrique is bracing his players for a tough trip to Madrid to face a Rayo side whom he believes play some of the most attractive football in La Liga.

He also feels Rayo's 44-year-old coach Paco Jemez is destined for a top job.

He said: "It will be different to Paris, they (Rayo) are a team that I like; they know how to play, they make life complicated for you.

"It will be difficult and we need to be alert. As well as that, the dimensions of the pitch allow them to play the way they want."

On Jemez, the Barca boss added: "I like the way he plays football - having possession, creating chances, attacking.

"He's had good results and got them in an attractive way for his fans. Jemez is more than ready to take charge of a big team."

While Barca go into the weekend boasting a two-point lead at the summit thanks to their barnstorming form, Rayo have had a mixed start to the season.

They held champions Atletico Madrid to a goalless draw on the opening day, but only took two points from their first four games in total.

However, they have beaten Athletic Bilbao and Levante in their last two outings to move into the top 10 and will be eyeing a hat-trick of successes when Barca come to town.

Jemez said: "I want it to be a game where every single player gives their all. I hope that Rayo make it good evening for the fans and that the fans feel proud, regardless of the result. But for that to happen, we need to do a lot."

Rayo will be without centre-back Ze Castro for the match, with Mohammed Fatau replacing him in an otherwise unchanged squad.

Barca are still without summer signings Luis Suarez (ban) and Thomas Vermaelen (injury), but Claudio Bravo could return in place of Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal.