Impact Valentin continues to recover from the knee contusion he sustained during Saturday's victory over Celta Vigo, when a collision with Javi Rueda forced him off in the 62nd minute. Although medical examinations ruled out an ACL tear, the Rayo Vallecano captain is still dealing with considerable inflammation that prevents him from participating in training. His inability to resume physical activity makes him unlikely to feature in Sunday's La Liga encounter against Real Sociedad, with the coaching staff instead targeting a return following the international break. The absence of significant ligament damage remains encouraging, but his recovery will depend on the swelling subsiding sufficiently to allow him to rebuild his fitness. Gnangoro Bouare, who replaced him against Celta Vigo, could benefit from additional playing time, while Pathe Ciss provides another option in central midfield after returning from suspension.
2 DAYS AGO • ROTOWIRE



