Luiz Felipe
RAYHamstring surgery ends season
Felipe underwent surgery following a high-grade hamstring tear in his left leg suffered in Athens, ruling him out for the remainder of the season with a four-month recovery timeline, according to Pablo Villa of Radio Marca.
Analysis: Felipe ends the campaign having made 10 appearances including seven starts, contributing 12 tackles, eight interceptions and 24 clearances across two clean sheets for Rayo. The severity of the tear clearly went beyond what had been initially indicated during his previous absences, and the surgical intervention means he will miss the start of next season as well. Rayo will need to manage their defensive options carefully for the final fixtures and the UEFA Conference League run without one of their experienced center-back options.
Out Thursday
Felipe (thigh) is out for Thursday's match against Espanyol, according to manager Inigo Perez. "We have the casualties of Luiz and those of those sanctioned."
Analysis: Felipe was already doubtful for Thrusday and it is only confirmed now that he will indeed miss out. Luckily, this is not a major absence, as he mainly serves in a depth role, starting in seven of his minimal 10 appearances. That said, no changes will be made due to his absence, hopefully only missing the one game due to his discomfort.
Doubtful against Espanyol
Felipe (thigh) did not train with his teammates Monday and is a doubt for Thursday's clash against Espanyol after picking up discomfort during the Conference League tie against AEK Athens, according to La Grada.
Analysis: Felipe had been forced off after 55 minutes in the AEK clash and his absence from Monday's team training session suggests the issue has not fully resolved in time for the weekend. The situation is particularly concerning for Rayo with Florian Lejeune and Nobel Mendy both suspended for the Espanyol fixture, leaving coach Inigo Perez stretched for defensive options. Pathe Ciss, Jozhua Vertrouwd and Abdul Mumin are among the candidates to fill the void if Felipe cannot be cleared, with the club managing several fitness concerns heading into what is already a difficult fixture.
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