Rayo Vallecano VS RCD Espanyol

Barcelona has shown a clear upward trend in the three seasons since its return to La Liga. In the 23rd season, the team only finished 17th and barely retained its La Liga status with a strong finish in the final stage. In the following two seasons, they consistently held the 8th position. In the last season, they were just one point away from the European competition zone, missing out on consecutive European campaigns. What really made the team stand out was last season when they reached the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League. Unfortunately, they lost to Crystal Palace and ended up as runners - up. However, the head coach Inigo Perez, who led the team to this historical achievement, then moved to Villarreal. As a result, the team now faces new tactical challenges. On the other hand, RCD Espanyol, a traditional La Liga team, has been through ups and downs, being relegated twice in the past six years. Fortunately, they have managed to avoid relegation without major issues in the two seasons since their return to La Liga in the 24th season. This season, they also start with the task of avoiding relegation. Over the past few seasons, they have fully embraced a pragmatic style. In terms of heritage and player value, the two teams are on a similar level. But in the last two seasons, Barcelona has shown performances that are more in line with mid - to - upper table teams.