Jesús Vallejo already knows he won't wear Real Madrid's jersey again. His destination is decided: Rayo Vallecano.
Although the center-back had hopes of getting some minutes in the remainder of the season, the reality is that Carlo Ancelotti has been clear. After what happened in Anoeta, where Madrid fell to Real Sociedad, the Italian coach has made a definitive decision.
An Injury That Leaves Him Out
Vallejo has suffered an injury at a key moment. Although it's not serious, it will prevent him from being available in the coming weeks. With the end of the season approaching, Ancelotti has opted to close the door.
He prefers to give minutes to the young players rather than to a player who, no matter what happens, will leave the club in the summer.
The coach's message has been emphatic: Vallejo won't play anymore. There is no room for doubt. Madrid's bet is on the future, and the Aragonese defender is no longer in the plans.
His Future Is in Vallecas
The fact that he didn't leave in the winter market had a clear reason. Vallejo already had his destination agreed upon. In June, he will become a new player for Rayo Vallecano, with whom he will sign for three seasons.
He arrives free, at no cost to the "franjirrojos," and with the intention of regaining prominence in LaLiga EA Sports.
Rayo has convinced him for several reasons. First, it allows him to continue living in Madrid, something crucial for him. Additionally, Íñigo Pérez's team needs reinforcements in defense.
Aridane hasn't delivered the expected performance, and Pelayo isn't considered by the coach. With Florian Lejeune and Abdul Mumin as starters, Vallejo arrives to compete and bring his experience.
Goodbye to a Madrid Where He Never Had a Place
On June 30, his time at Real Madrid will definitively close. He arrived in 2015 as one of the great promises of Spanish soccer.
However, he never managed to establish himself in the first team. He has only played 32 matches with the white club, and most of his career has been spent on loan.
Zaragoza, Eintracht Frankfurt, Wolverhampton, and Granada were his destinations before this last stage in Madrid. Now, at 28 years old, he seeks stability in a team that offers him continuity.
Rayo opens the doors for him, and he accepts the challenge. In Vallecas, he will have the opportunity he never had at Bernabéu. His time as a Madridist is ending, and now, he has to start anew.