Madrid, Nov 8 (NationPress) Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are set for crucial away matches that could significantly influence the La Liga title race as the final international break of 2025 approaches. Real Madrid will travel to face Rayo Vallecano at the Valencas Stadium, holding a five-point advantage over Barcelona, who faces a challenging away game against an in-form Celta Vigo.

Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is out for Real Madrid due to a muscle injury, prompting adjustments in Xabi Alonso's starting lineup. Eduardo Camavinga will take on the midfield holding role, Fede Valverde will revert to his preferred midfield position, and Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to return at right-back, according to reports from Xinhua.

The former Liverpool star has faced a challenging start to his Madrid career due to injuries, and although Alonso typically prefers Dani Carvajal for away matches, Carvajal's knee issues may provide Alexander-Arnold the opportunity to shine at Vallecas.

Real Madrid has often voiced concerns about insufficient recovery time between matches, but on Sunday, they are up against a rival that has only been allotted 65 hours between their dramatic Conference League victory over Lech Poznan and the Sunday afternoon kick-off.

Celta Vigo, welcoming Barcelona after securing two consecutive wins in La Liga and two in the Europa League, has found its rhythm after starting the season with seven draws in its first nine league matches.

The spotlight has been on Barcelona's high defensive line, which has begun to concede goals at an alarming rate after a recent 3-3 draw against Club Brugge. Celta boasts players capable of capitalizing on any defensive vulnerabilities.

Borja Iglesias is expected to spearhead the Celta offense, with former Barcelona player Ferran Jutgla providing support, and veteran Iago Aspas adding experience if required.

Despite concerns regarding a pelvic injury, Lamine Yamal, who was recently included in Luis de la Fuente's Spain squad, is likely to start for Barcelona. Meanwhile, questions remain about whether Ferran Torres or Robert Lewandowski will take charge of the attack.

Real Madrid's match will conclude well before Celta and Barcelona kick off, meaning Barcelona will know whether they need three points to narrow the gap at the top of the table or merely to stay competitive.