Isi Palazón
RAY
Exits with injury Thursday
Palazon exited Thursday's game against Alaves with a muscular injury in the first half.
Analysis: Palazon looked active in the opening 15 minutes of the match before departing, and further tests will be needed to determine the extent of the injury. Randy Nteka took his place in the lineup, and he could be among the candidates to earn a bigger role moving forward if Palazon is forced to miss time. Rayo's next match is against Barcelona on Monday, Aug. 31.
Seven-match ban ends season early
Palazon (suspension) was handed a seven-match ban by the RFEF, effectively ending his LaLiga season with five fixtures remaining, according to Marca.
Analysis: Palazon has been handed a one-match ban for yellow card accumulation, a two-match suspension for his dismissal and protests, and an additional four-match suspension for allegedly insulting referee Guzman Mansilla, who noted in his match report that the midfielder called him a "shameless person" during the match against Real Sociedad. The suspension is a significant blow for Rayo, as Palazon had been one of their most important creative outlets this season, with three goals and three assists in La Liga and a key role in their Conference League campaign. Pedro Diaz is expected to take on a larger role in attacking midfield during his absence, though replacing Palazon's output will be a difficult task for coach Inigo Perez in the final stretch of the season.
Will miss one game
Palazon will serve a one-match ban due to an accumulation of 10 yellow cards in La Liga.
Analysis: Palazon picked up his 10th yellow card in La Liga play and will serve a one-match suspension for Sunday's clash against Getafe. The attacking midfielder has been a regular starter in the midfield for Rayo this season, therefore his absence will force a change in the starting XI, with Pedro Diaz likely getting a larger role during his absence.
Thrives in playmaker role
Isi Palazon recorded seven shots (three on goal), eight crosses (two accurate) and five corners in Thursday's 1-0 win against Espanyol.
Analysis: Isi Palazon was on the ball constantly Thursday, leading the Rayo Vallecano attack with seven shots (three on goal), eight crosses (two accurate) and five corners. The 90-minute appearance marks a return to the lineup for the veteran who did not appear in Rayo Vallecano's previous fixture following 16 successive appearances (14 starts).
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