San José: "I was surprised Oyarzabal wasn't on the Ballon d'Or list"

Rayo Vallecano manager San José praised Real Sociedad ahead of their clash and expressed surprise that Oyarzabal was omitted from the Ballon d'Or shortlist.

Former Rayo Vallecano manager Íñigo Pérez San José held his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Real Sociedad, reflecting on a difficult week following the death of De Miguel. San José spoke warmly of Real Sociedad, describing the club as his home and the team of his life, where he was born as both a player and coach in their academy.

On the upcoming fixture, San José highlighted Real Sociedad's quality and their dangerous counter-attacking threat, singling out Mikel Oyarzabal as one of the best players in the world. He expressed surprise that Oyarzabal had not made the Ballon d'Or shortlist, saying he should have been ranked higher based on his quality, versatility, and trophy wins, despite respecting the final list.

San José also discussed Rayo's recent improvement against Elche, noting they were more solid defensively and better positioned. He confirmed injury concerns with Álvaro (muscular problem, hoped to be back within a month) and Óscar Valentín (knee inflammation), though he remained optimistic both could return after the international break.