Meanwhile, president Raúl Martín Presa has announced wide-ranging structural reforms to the club's infrastructure including a new stadium project.
Journalist Matteo Moretto reported that Arrasate is close to finalising an agreement to take charge of Rayo Vallecano for the 2026-27 season. The 43-year-old Basque coach has been available since his dismissal from RCD Mallorca in March, having previously built a reputation for organisation and European qualification during a long stint at Osasuna. The Pamplona club reached the Copa del Rey final under his guidance in 2023.
Pérez's departure has left a void that the club's hierarchy is moving quickly to fill. Multiple contract situations also require resolution before the window opens in earnest — midfielder Unai López, left-back Pacha Espino, centre-back Mumin and defender Luiz Felipe all see their deals expire on June 30.
Presa used the occasion of Pérez's farewell press conference to announce the structural changes. An agreement with the Community of Madrid will fund upgrades to the training ground at the Ciudad Deportiva, including new pitches and changing facilities, while a new stadium project in Vallecas has been confirmed with the backing of the Madrid city council.
On the pitch, the ambition appears undiminished. Fullback Ivan Balliu spoke directly to a fan who urged the squad to take a quieter approach next season.
"Not a chance," García replied. "Rest in June and July because this team is still hungry. We still owe you something" — accompanied by a trophy emoji.
A pre-season friendly against Feyenoord, managed by Robin van Persie, has been scheduled for July 26 at the Stadion Fejenoord in Rotterdam, with Rayo repeating their tour of the Netherlands from last pre-season.
The Conference League final defeat to Crystal Palace leaves an unresolved debt in Vallecas. The rebuild begins with that feeling still fresh.