Deportivo Alavés and RCD Mallorca are set to face off in a La Liga clash at Mendizorroza Stadium, with particular attention on the potential reunion between former Valencia striker Manu Vallejo and Mallorca’s Vedat Muriqi. While Vallejo, who played for Alavés on loan last season, is not currently registered with the club, the match has sparked interest due to the historical connection between the two forwards. The fixture, scheduled for April 27, 2025, at 4:00 PM CEST, will take place at Mendizorroza in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the home ground of Deportivo Alavés.
The match holds significance as both teams aim to strengthen their positions in the La Liga standings. Alavés, fighting to avoid relegation, will seem to capitalize on home advantage, while Mallorca seeks to secure a mid-table finish and build momentum for the final stretch of the season. Recent form shows Alavés with two wins in their last five home games, according to La Liga’s official statistics, while Mallorca has lost three of their last five away matches.
Tactical Expectations and Team News
Alavés manager Luis García Plaza is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on the creativity of Antonio Sivera in midfield and the pace of Jon Guridi on the flanks. Mallorca, under Jagoba Arrasate, may opt for a 4-3-3 setup, with Vedat Muriqi leading the line and supported by Dani Rodríguez and Kang-in Lee. Injury reports indicate that Alavés will be without suspended defender Álex Battaglia, while Mallorca’s Pablo Maffeo remains doubtful due to a hamstring strain.
Historically, the head-to-head record between the two sides favors Mallorca slightly, with 12 wins in the last 25 meetings compared to Alavés’ 9, with four draws. The last encounter at Mendizorroza ended in a 1-1 draw in December 2023, with goals from Luis Rioja and Vedat Muriqi. Muriqi, who joined Mallorca from Lazio in 2022, has scored 18 goals in 55 appearances for the Bermellones.
Fan Engagement and Matchday Atmosphere
Alavés has encouraged fans to arrive early for the match, citing enhanced security measures and pre-match entertainment in the plaza outside Mendizorroza. The club has also launched a promotional campaign highlighting the “Derby of the North,” emphasizing regional pride despite the absence of a traditional rivalry. Ticket sales indicate strong demand, with over 18,000 seats already sold as of April 25, according to the club’s official ticketing platform.
Local authorities in Vitoria-Gasteiz have coordinated with stadium staff to manage crowd flow, particularly around the San Francisco and España entrances. Public transport options, including increased bus frequency on lines 1 and 2, will be available from the city center to the stadium on matchday.
Looking Ahead
The outcome of this match could influence both teams’ trajectories in the final six games of the La Liga season. A win for Alavés would provide crucial breathing room above the relegation zone, while a victory for Mallorca could solidify their push for a top-ten finish. Both clubs have confirmed post-match press conferences will be held in the Mendizorroza media room, with live coverage available on La Liga’s official broadcast partners.
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