Málaga CF completed their second training session of the week without changes to the working group, focusing on the upcoming LaLiga EA Sports match against Espanyol. Tuesday morning's session at the La Rosaleda annex facilities followed the same pattern as Monday's, starting with physical work before moving to technical and tactical drills with the ball. The team, sitting 20th in the table with just three points from seven games, aims to break their winless streak against an opponent currently in 15th place.
Juan Cruz completed his second consecutive session with the group after overcoming a muscular overload, providing a boost to the midfield. However, the coaching staff remains without Jens Cajuste, Diego Murillo, Aarón Ochoa, and Julen Lobete, who continue their injury recoveries working separately. Also, Rafita and Chupe were absent to play for Spain's Under-21 side against Romania in Ibiza.
Merino calls for first win
Amid this situation, midfielder Izan Merino has called on the squad to secure the elusive first victory. "We just need that first win to start moving up," stated the player, aware of the need to boost confidence after a season start with three draws and four losses. The squad, which will train again on Wednesday at 10:30, faces a run of fixtures where the match against Espanyol is a key opportunity.
The last defeat, a 1-0 loss to Getafe on September 20, is part of a five-game winless run (LLDDL). To turn this around, the team must improve both defensively, having conceded 12 goals, and in attack, with only three scored. Supporters can check the updated standings to follow the team's progress in the battle to climb out of the relegation zone.
Analysis of the team's performance shows the urgency of securing three-point hauls. In their seven matches, Málaga has been trailing for 423 minutes, equivalent to over seven full games of playing time. In contrast, they have only been ahead on the scoreboard for 27 minutes in the entire competition. These figures highlight the difficulty in maintaining possession and initiative, a problem the coaching staff is working to correct in training. Defensive pressure and effectiveness in transition will be key against an Espanyol side also seeking points to move away from the bottom.
The next training session, scheduled for Wednesday, will again focus on specific tactical organization for the opponent. With several starters absent, academy players could have opportunities for minutes, though Merino's message is clear: the unity of the group is essential to achieve the first win that can turn the season and the dressing room's morale around.
Background and full detail: malagacf.com
