Málaga CF is gearing up for the return to competition after the international break, a pause used for work that has not dispelled concerns over player absences. The team, sitting bottom of La Liga with just three points from seven games, will resume training this Monday, September 28, at 18:30 at La Rosaleda, with their sights set on the next league fixture at home against Espanyol.
Adjustments to the routine
Head coach Juanfran Funes introduced changes to the weekly routine to break the cycle. On Tuesday, the squad traveled outside La Rosaleda for a group activity, seeking a change of scenery after a tough start to the season. The final session before the break took place on Friday morning, giving way to two days off for the players.
Friendly win and absences
On Thursday, the team gained a significant morale boost with a 6-0 friendly win over Antequera. However, the week's balance is not entirely positive regarding availability. Players Einar Galilea and Juan Cruz trained separately for load management, while a long injury list remained sidelined. New signings Adam Aznou and Jens Cajuste, yet to make their debuts, are still marked for the Espanyol match, as are Diego Murillo and Aarón Ochoa. Centre-back Fernando Calero, who suffered three rib fractures in a preseason friendly, could be available soon, according to the medical report.
Context and the next challenge
The league situation, with the team in 20th place and on a five-match winless run (LLDDL), shows the urgency of picking up points in the next game. Espanyol, who will visit La Rosaleda on October 9, currently sit in 15th place. The squad will aim to capitalise on the confidence from the friendly to reverse their poor form in the competition. The return to work this Monday at La Rosaleda will mark the start of the countdown to a vital match in the battle to escape the relegation zone.
Background and full detail: Marca - Primera
