Lamine Yamal set to start for Barcelona against Rayo Vallecano in LaLiga matchweek 3

Lamine Yamal is expected to start for FC Barcelona against Rayo Vallecano tonight at the Spotify Camp Nou in their LaLiga 2026-27 matchweek 3 fixture, after training with the first team ahead of the game.

Barcelona arrive for the match having added several signings to their squad, with names such as Rodri, Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi cited as reinforcements for the new season; the club are also reported to be very close to signing Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus. Hansi Flick has deployed Raphinha as his first-choice striker so far, and the Brazilian forward has scored three goals in two LaLiga appearances this season.

The 19-year-old Yamal has started both of Barcelona’s opening two league games in 2026-27 and has been training with the first team ahead of the clash with Rayo Vallecano, which the report says means he is all set to start. Lamine Yamal plays football tomorrow pic.twitter.com/7GCCNcirCL

Although Yamal has not yet scored this season, the report states his presence on the right flank remains problematic for opponents and that he can be a constant threat; he is named alongside Raphinha, Fermin Lopez and Anthony Gordon as players who will keep Rayo’s defence under pressure. The piece adds that Yamal will be eager to find the scoresheet.

The midfield is expected to feature Rodri in his usual defensive midfield position alongside Pedri, with both players given a crucial role in controlling the tempo. Barcelona’s defensive unit is listed as Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin and Joao Cancelo, with Joan Garcia named as the first-choice goalkeeper.

The article confirms the 19-year-old is fit to start and points readers to live coverage options, noting that the FanCode app and website can be used for updates. For further news, it directs readers to follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, download the Khel Now Android or iOS app, or join their community on Telegram.

Barcelona will field Yamal in the starting XI against Rayo Vallecano at the Spotify Camp Nou tonight in LaLiga matchweek 3, with live updates available via FanCode and Khel Now’s channels.