Three talking points from Barcelona 3-0 Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona wrap up second spot

Barcelona have struggled against Rayo in recent seasons but had no such problems on Sunday as goals from Robert Lewandowski and Pedri secured a 3-0 win at Montjuic.

Xavi’s side headed into the match having failed to win any of their last five games against Rayo and also having failed to score in their last two home games against Los Franjirrojos but eased to a win that puts them four clear of Girona with just one game left.

Lewandowski’s early goal sent Barca on their way before a quickfire brace from Pedri finished Rayo off midway through the second half.

Barca are now guaranteed second place, and more importantly a place in the Spanish Super Cup for next season, ahead of their last match of the season against Sevilla next weekend.

Fans make feelings clear as chaos continues

Barcelona came into the game after another tumultuous week for the club that has seen intense speculation that Joan Laporta is ready to fire Xavi from his position as first-team coach.

Xavi is thought to have angered Laporta with his comments about the club’s inability to compete next season, due to their financial issues, which has led Laporta to decide he won’t be in charge for the new campaign.

Supporters seem to be in two minds over who to back. There were some cries of “Barcelona yes, Laporta no” heard ringing around Montjuic during the game – but those shouts were also met by whistles.

Xavi’s name was also chanted by many at the stadium, but again there were also some whistles too.

We still don’t really know what will happen next. Xavi has insisted he is looking forward to next season, but the rumor mill continues to speculate on when he will be fired and who will take over as manager.

Pedri comes alive

Pedri came off the bench to seal the victory for Barcelona, scoring two goals in three minutes to make the game safe after Lewandowski’s opener. It’s the midfielder first brace of his Barcelona career and means he now as 20 goals in 143 appearances for the club.

The midfielder’s goals were his first since all the way back in January when he was on target in a 5-3 victory over Villarreal.

Unsurprisingly, Pedri was all smiles after the game as he reflected on his brace which should provide a confidence boost after a difficult season.

There was also plenty of praise from his manager who was happy to see his midfielder back in the goals.

“Goals are the best recipe to gain confidence. Pedri needs continuity and rhythm. He needs dynamism that he has lacked with injuries,” he said. “He is a differential player. Everything is favorable when he has the ball. He lacks rhythm and confidence but this will come in handy and be good for him.”

The midfielder has endured another injury-interrupted campaign which has even led to speculation from some quarters that Barca could be willing to cash in on the midfielder due to his continued physical issues.

Pedri is now fit and set for a summer where he’s expected to feature for Spain at Euro 2024. Barca will be hoping he can shine in Germany but, more importantly, will be praying he comes through the tournament without suffering any more injury setbacks.