Marash Kumbulla

Kumbulla played 45 minutes across Albania's four matches during the international break, making his only appearance off the bench in a 3-0 win over San Marino.

Analysis: Kumbulla's 45-minute appearance provided another step in his return after recovering from an adductor injury, and he completed the international window without any reported setback. The center-back returns to Rayo Vallecano with a limited workload but also little competitive action, having yet to make his La Liga debut this season. He had returned to the matchday squad before the break and should provide another defensive option against Athletic, though a place on the bench appears more likely than an immediate starting role.

Sep 12, 2026

Makes bench vs. Real Madrid

Kumbulla (undisclosed) is on the bench for Saturday's game against Real Madrid.

Analysis: Kumbulla was in a race against time to be available for this contest, and the center-back was included on the bench in the end. When healthy and at the peak of his match fitness, Kumbulla should add depth and potentially contend for playing time at the heart of the defense alongside Pathe Ciss and Florian Lejeune.