Rayo boosted as De Frutos returns to ball work in training comeback
Vallecano back at work with positive signs from injured winger ahead of busy January schedule against Getafe and Copa clash with Granada.
Rayo Vallecano’s return to training has been given a major boost with Jorge De Frutos back on the grass and working with the ball as Iñigo Pérez’s squad prepares for their first fixtures of 2026.
New Year, New Hope
The Franjirrojos are back at the training ground after their festive break, with preparations now underway for Friday’s home clash against Getafe at Vallecas, followed quickly by a Copa del Rey tie against Granada at Los Cármenes on January 6th.
But it’s the sight of De Frutos getting stuck in with the ball that’s got everyone at the club proper chuffed. The Segovian winger, who’s been on the sidelines for exactly two weeks since picking up a knock against Betis, is recovering from a bone edema in his right knee faster than expected. Talk about a belting start to the new year!
Injury and Absence Headaches
Despite the positive vibes around De Frutos, gaffer Pérez still has a few selection headaches to sort:
- De Frutos himself won’t be ready for the upcoming fixtures despite his progress
- Balliu remains out after doing his hamstring against Elche
- Pathé Ciss and Nteka are away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations
- There’s a potential silver lining with Nteka, as Angola could be eliminated early, speeding up his return
- Alemao’s recovery timeline remains a mystery after the striker missed all of December with pubalgia
January Challenges
With the squad not quite at full strength, Pérez will need to be clever with his selections as Rayo look to kick off 2026 on the right foot. The Madrid derby against Getafe will be a proper test before they head south for cup action.
The return of De Frutos to ball work is certainly giving everyone at Ciudad Deportiva something to smile about, even if they’ll need to wait a bit longer to see him back in competitive action. As we say in London, that boy’s worth his weight in Berkshire Hunt.