Etienne Eto’o’s hopes of breaking into Rayo Vallecano’s first-team plans have suffered a major setback just weeks before the start of the La Liga season.
The 21-year-old Cameroonian striker, who impressed early in pre-season with appearances against Genk and Zwolle – even scoring against the Dutch side – has since been omitted from the squad for the club’s final two warm-up matches against Atlético Madrid and West Bromwich Albion.
His absence has raised questions over his standing within Iñigo Pérez’s set-up, despite only recently being promoted to the senior side.
According to club sources, Eto’o has not done enough to convince the coaching staff that he can play a meaningful role in the coming campaign.
That leaves him slipping down the pecking order among the team’s attacking options, despite a solid season with the reserves last year.
Loan move considered best option
Rayo’s management has now made the decision to make the player available for loan, with a move to Spain’s Segunda División B – the country’s third tier – considered the most suitable destination.
Club officials believe that regular playing time in a less pressurised environment will be crucial to his development.
Several lower-league sides have already expressed interest in securing his services.
For Rayo, the reasoning is clear: keeping Eto’o confined to the bench or reserve matches would slow his progress.
A loan spell, they argue, offers a chance to refine his skills, build confidence, and adapt to the demands of professional football at a competitive level.
From rising expectations to reality check
The decision comes as a disappointment to supporters who had been hopeful of seeing the son of legendary striker Samuel Eto’o follow in his father’s footsteps.
???? Étienne Eto’o n’a pas disputé la moindre minute lors des deux derniers matchs de préparation du Rayo Vallecano face à l’Atletico Madrid et à West Bromwich Albion. Absent de la feuille de match.
Malgré qu’il ait disputé les deux premiers matchs amicaux de présaison contre… pic.twitter.com/nlUBkkoQvn
— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) August 9, 2025
His early integration into the first team was met with excitement, with some fans even picturing him making an impact against Spanish football’s elite, including Barcelona.
However, the reality has proved far more challenging.
Breaking into La Liga’s top level requires more than promise, and Eto’o is now set to take what the club sees as an essential intermediate step.
For now, his journey to the Spanish top flight will continue away from the spotlight of Vallecas – with the focus firmly on proving he can return stronger, more experienced, and ready for the demands of top-tier football.
