Borja Iglesias Set for Valencia Return After Oviedo Absence
Celta Vigo's top scorer Borja Iglesias is expected to make his comeback against Valencia this Saturday, having missed the final match of 2025 at Oviedo.
Celta’s main goal threat is ready to lead the line once more as the Galicians prepare for their first home fixture of 2026.
The Panda Returns
After sitting out Celta’s final match of 2025 away at Oviedo, Borja Iglesias is primed to make his return to action this Saturday when Valencia come to Balaídos. The striker, affectionately known as ‘The Panda’, has been absolutely crucial to Claudio Giráldez’s side this season.
The numbers tell the story of his importance - he’s bagged nine goals across all competitions, making him Celta’s leading marksman. What’s even more impressive is his availability. Out of a possible 26 matches, he’s featured in 24, missing only the Oviedo clash and a Copa del Rey first round tie where he was rested. In total, he’s clocked up 1,269 minutes of action.
Having your main goal-getter back for the start of the new calendar year is proper Bobby Dazzler for the Galicians.
Injury Concerns Remain
While Iglesias looks set to return, Giráldez still has a couple of injury headaches to contend with:
- Pablo Durán is nursing a ligament injury in his left shoulder
- Carlos Domínguez is recovering from a fibrillar tear in his left thigh adductor
Both players have been putting in the graft over the Christmas period, but it’ll be touch and go whether either makes it back in time for the Valencia clash. If they do recover, they’ll be cutting it mighty fine.
Back to Business
The squad returned to training on Monday following their brief festive break. The week’s sessions are scheduled for 11am each day, with a couple of exceptions:
- New Year’s Eve training will start 30 minutes earlier at 10:30am
- New Year’s Day session will take place at 5pm
With Iglesias leading the line once more, Celta will be looking to kick off 2026 with a bang against Los Che.