Málaga CF completed two squad moves on the final day of the transfer window, bringing in Swedish midfielder Jens Cajuste and loaning out youngster Pablo Arriaza. Mundo Deportivo reported that Cajuste arrives on loan from Napoli until the end of the season, while Marca - Primera detailed Arriaza's loan move to Estepona.
What does Jens Cajuste bring to the midfield?
Jens Cajuste, 27, joins Málaga to bolster the engine room. The deal, first reported by Marca - Primera, is a free loan with a non-mandatory purchase option set at eight million euros. The player, a full Swedish international, brings experience from Europe's top leagues after spells at Midtjylland, Stade de Reims, Napoli, and most recently at England's Ipswich Town in the Premier League.
His profile is that of a defensive and physical midfielder, a pivot that manager Juanfran Funes deemed necessary. Cajuste remains under contract with Napoli until 2028 but faces this season at La Rosaleda aiming to establish the team in the top flight. His next match will be at home against Athletic Club on November 29th, according to the fixtures schedule.
Why did Málaga loan out Pablo Arriaza?
Academy product Pablo Arriaza, 22, extended his contract with Málaga CF until 2028 and was loaned to Estepona in the Segunda RFEF. Marca - Primera explained that the club sees the midfielder as a future asset who needs competitive minutes to make the jump to the first team. Arriaza completed much of the pre-season under Funes and already made his first-team debut in the Copa del Rey.
Last season he was a key piece for Atlético Malagueño in the Segunda Federación, playing 27 matches. Manager Juanfran Funes has defended the usefulness of this loan, comparing the path to that of other club-trained players who needed to leave to gain experience. Arriaza will seek continuity at Estepona to continue his development.
How did the defeat against Real Madrid unfold?
Málaga CF fell to a 4-0 defeat in their visit to the Santiago Bernabéu last Sunday, according to reports from Dawn Sport and Hindustan Times Sports. Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé scored for Real Madrid in a match where Málaga goalkeeper Alfonso Herrero scored an own goal. Arda Guler completed the rout in the second half.
José Mourinho's team scored three goals in just over ten minutes during the first half. Bellingham opened the scoring in the 19th minute after a superb solo run, and Mbappé volleyed home a cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold for the third. Newly-promoted Málaga struggled against the reigning champions. You can check more match data on our stats page.
What is the transfer window's final balance?
Málaga CF's sporting direction has worked to add depth to the squad for the demanding top-flight season. The arrival of Cajuste follows the signing of defender Juan Berrocal, announced on the same Tuesday. With these operations, the club seeks a balance between immediate experience and betting on the future, as shown by the renewal and loan of Arriaza.
The team now faces a league stretch where defensive solidity and home performance will be key. The current squad, which you can review on squad, blends experience with young talent. The next fixture at La Rosaleda is on November 29th against Athletic Club.
