Rayo Vallecano’s coach was convinced by Andrei Rațiu (28 years old), the defender returning from an injury.
Rațiu returned for Rayo in the match the Madrid team won 3-0 against Celta Vigo, Ionuț Radu’s team. The right-back provided an assist after a splendid action, prompting Benat San Jose to praise him.
The coach is convinced that Rațiu could start for "almost any team in this league."
Benat San Jose emphasized Rațiu's importance to Rayo's play.
"Andrei Rațiu offers us a lot, that is clear. It is true that even without him we played well and had very good matches.
I am very satisfied with all the players, but there is no doubt that Rațiu is one of the best full-backs in La Liga. There is not much more to say in this regard. When he plays, he demonstrates this.
He could be a starter for almost any team in this league. He has extraordinary physical and technical qualities.
He is a remarkable footballer from all points of view, including mentally. He is very competitive, has a winning mentality, and helps us enormously," said Benat San Jose, according to Marca.
Andrei Rațiu has played seven matches (630 minutes) in all competitions this season for Rayo Vallecano, scoring once and providing one assist.
Rațiu, failed transfer in the Premier League
During the summer transfer window, Andrei Rațiu was wanted by the English club Fulham.
Although Rațiu said "yes" to the transfer to Fulham, which offered 25 million euros for his signature, Rayo Vallecano hesitated to give the green light for the move.
The Madrid team blocked the transfer because Fulham wanted to pay the 25 million euros, the amount of the release clause, in two installments. Rayo did not agree and the transfer was blocked.
Moreover, the sum would have even risen to 30 million euros; ultimately, the transfer did not materialize.