Rayo Vallecano manager backs his side to stun Barcelona – ‘We can beat them’ | OneFootball

Rayo Vallecano manager Inigo Perez is confident that his team has what it takes to secure a victory against Barcelona in their upcoming match.

He expressed strong belief in his team’s abilities, emphasizing that his players are not only in good form but are also highly motivated for the challenge ahead.

He also acknowledged the strength of Barcelona as an opponent, highlighting key players such as Pedri and Raphinha, along with the tactical methods employed by their manager, Hansi Flick.

Confident about the result

Perez noted that Rayo Vallecano can win the game, but he made it clear that it would take a perfect performance from his side to overcome Barcelona, whose individual and collective talent often proves to be decisive.

Inigo Perez is confident about the result. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

He mentioned that although the match won’t be played at one of the toughest venues in La Liga, it is certainly one of the most demanding challenges they will face.

“I think tomorrow we can win. These are not words in the air. If I felt otherwise I would say so. We can win, but we have to be aware that if it’s not the most complex ground, it’s one of the most,” he told the press as quoted by SPORT.

The coach stressed that for Rayo to take all three points, they will need to ensure that Barcelona does not perform at their best.

He emphasized that while both teams may be on equal footing in terms of effort, Barcelona’s superior skill and experience would usually come through.

“On equal merits, surely their level, which is superior individually and collectively, would prevail,” he noted.

Praise for Lamine Yamal

Perez hailed Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Perez also took time to praise the young Barcelona talent, Lamine Yamal, describing him as an exciting player who combines youth, energy, and self-confidence with impressive maturity in his decision-making during games.

He sees a lot of promise in Yamal’s approach to the game and believes he adds a unique element to Barcelona’s attack.

“I love him because, apart from the obvious, the image, the dynamism he has and how we can see the goals and the plays he makes.

“I really like the mix he has of a guy who goes up, with that illusion and self-confidence of not thinking when he hits or misses, and then making decisions in the game. He always chooses well. I like him a lot,” he noted.

Praise for Flick too

Perez also praised Hansi Flick’s tactics. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

In addition to discussing individual players, Perez also acknowledged the work Hansi Flick has done at Barcelona.

He noted how Flick has not only enhanced the offensive capabilities of the team but has also managed to instil a work ethic in his players, making them play with the same intensity and effort as Rayo Vallecano.

“It is very commendable that someone convinces these players that physical effort is going to get you goals.”

Perez believes that the physical demands of the game will make it one of the toughest encounters for both teams in La Liga this season.

“On a physical level, it’s going to be, if not the most demanding match in the league, one of the most demanding for sure,” he concluded.