LaLiga Action Returns: Getafe Takes on Rayo Vallecano in South-Madrid Derby

Madrid: LaLiga wastes no time as it kicks off the New Year with the 19th round of matches over the next three days.

The first match features an in-form Getafe hosting Rayo Vallecano in a south-Madrid derby. Rayo Vallecano had a tough end to 2023 with three defeats in its last four games, while Getafe has been performing well, securing three wins and a draw in its last four matches. Getafe, with a clean bill of health, will rely on Mason Greenwood for inspiration, while Rayo Vallecano will miss veteran talisman Oscar Trejo.

In the Basque derby on Tuesday, Real Sociedad faces Alaves. Real Sociedad has lost key players Umar Sadiq and Hamari Traore to the African Cup of Nations, and winger Take Kubo to the Asian Cup. This opens the door for Aritz Elustondo to play in defense and Andre Silva in attack. Alaves, despite an unfortunate late defeat to Real Madrid before Christmas, faces relegation concerns after a run of three defeats and looks to powerful striker Samu to find his scoring form.

The last game on Tuesday is an east-coast derby between Valencia and Villarreal. Valencia, missing captain Jose Gaya and with Mouctar Diakhaby suspended and Selim Amallah on African Cup duty, hosts Villarreal. Villarreal has signed defender Eric Bailly, who returns eight years after leaving for Manchester United. With several players injured, including Aissa Mandi, Juan Foyth, Yeremi Pino, Alex Baena, and Alexander Sorloth, Bailly is expected to start in what promises to be a physical battle at Mestalla.