Celta de Vigo coach Claudio Giráldez praised Málaga CF's playing style on the eve of their match. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, the Galician manager highlighted the attractiveness of the Málaga CF team's football, with the side arriving after a goalless draw against Levante on September 6.
Málaga CF's recent form shows a tough spell, with five matches without a win, collecting three draws and two defeats. This search for points gives the clash against Celta special importance for Juanfran Funes's team, whose full schedule can be checked on our fixtures page.
Praise for Málaga CF's style
Giráldez was full of compliments for the opposition. "We are playing against a team that is very attractive in the way they play," stated the Celta boss. This recognition comes as Málaga CF tries to solidify a clear playing project under manager Juanfran Funes, whose assistant, Juan Carlos Andrés, expressed happiness at seeing him manage in the top flight.
The Carlos Dotor situation
One of the most interesting points of the press conference centred on Carlos Dotor, the player on loan from Celta who is part of the Málaga CF squad. Giráldez was clear about the loan's purpose. "Carlos Dotor is on loan so that in the future he can be here," he explained. The coach added that he does not believe in restricting a loaned player's season, though he personally hoped Dotor would not score in Sunday's game.
This statement shows the Vigo club's confidence in the player's development, as he seeks minutes and continuity at Málaga CF. The progress of Dotor and the rest of the squad can be followed in detail on our squad section.
The context of the visit
Málaga CF host Celta at a time when they need wins to improve their league position. The team has taken just three points from the last fifteen available, a run that includes the draw with Deportivo and defeats to Real Madrid and Atlético. The defensive solidity shown in the goalless draw with Levante is a foundation to build upon.
After this fixture, the schedule sees Málaga CF prepare for their next home match against Athletic Club, set for November 29. The team must find the consistency to climb the table, something fans can track in the standings.
Giráldez's preview ultimately served to acknowledge the value of the rival project and to make clear the future bet on one of his players. Sunday's match will test both the appeal of Málaga CF's football and the effectiveness of a Celta side looking to keep adding points.
