Rayo Vallecano have strengthened their squad with the signing of midfielder Rayane Belaid Khelil from Atlético de Madrid. The franjirrojo club announced a five-year deal for the young Spanish talent on Thursday.
Belaid, born in Orihuela on February 11, 2005, arrives after coming through the youth ranks at Atlético Madrid. The 21-year-old progressed from Juvenil A to the reserve team, Atlético Madrileño. Last season he made 31 appearances in the Primera Federación, starting 22 matches, and scored 4 goals. He also made his La Liga debut in April 2026, playing 134 minutes across two games for the colchonero first team.
What role will Belaid play at Rayo?
Rayane Belaid is a midfielder who can also operate as an attacking midfielder. Rayo Vallecano will manage his registration as a player for Rayo C, the B team, but his integration into the dynamics of the first team will be overseen by coach Beñat San José. "He will be a player in the dynamics of Beñat San José's team," the manager stated.
His arrival brings freshness and versatility to an area of the pitch Rayo wants to strengthen. The club is looking to improve its performance after a tough start to the La Liga season, where they sit 18th with just one point from three games. You can check the full standings on our standings page.
What is the new signing's background?
Belaid does not arrive at Rayo Vallecano as an unknown quantity. He was a European Under-19 champion with Spain in 2024 and has also worn the shirt of the Under-20 side, including playing in the World Cup for that age group. His growth last campaign, with minutes in the top flight, shows his potential.
His signing is a bet on youth and talent developed in Spain. Rayo Vallecano trusts that his adaptation will be quick to help turn around the current situation. The team has scored 4 goals but conceded 8, leaving a goal difference of -4. All the team's data is available in our stats section.
How does Rayo face the coming weeks?
Belaid's incorporation comes at a time of need for the Vallecas outfit. The team has a demanding schedule ahead and must recover positive feelings. Currently, the squad managed by Beñat San José has two confirmed absentees: Augusto Batalla and Jozhua Vertrouwd. Injury updates can be followed on our injuries page.
The next fixture is a home match against Racing Santander, tenth in the table, on Saturday, September 5th. A win would be crucial to climb out of the relegation places and cut into the eight-point gap to leaders Barcelona. Rayane Belaid signs a contract with Rayo Vallecano that will keep him at the club until June 2031.
