Málaga CF has finalized its First Division squad with a total of 28 players, as reported by Diario Sur on Wednesday. Juanfran Funes's team brought in seven new signings during the summer transfer window to prepare for its return to the top flight.
Sporting director Loren Juarros decided from the start not to reinforce the goalkeeper or striker positions. Alfonso Herrero and Carlos López will be the only goalkeepers, while forwards Chupete and Niño retain their leading roles after last season. Jauregi's renewal completed the attacking unit.
What changes were made in defence?
The defensive line did see changes. Salinas and Aznou, the latter signed on the deadline day, are the new faces for the left-back position. On the right, the options are Puga and Rafita, who has impressed in the opening matches. In central defence, Galilea, Álex Pastor and academy graduate Recio remain, while Murillo recovers from an injury. They are joined by new signings Fernando Calero, currently injured with three broken ribs, and Berrocal. This gives Funes six centre-backs when all are available.
How does the midfield look?
Midfield is the most crowded area of the squad. Joaquín, Juan Cruz or Lobete can operate on the left wing. Larrubia and Haitam are options on the right. For the central positions, the manager has Izan Merino, Dotor, Ramón, Dani Lorenzo, Rafa, Aarón Ochoa and the new arrivals Pablo Martínez and Cajuste. Academy products Recio and Rafa also have official first-team squad numbers for the first time in the top division.
What role will reserve team players have?
Three players registered with the reserve team will be permanent fixtures in the senior squad. Rafita has already played in the first three league matches. Aarón Ochoa returned to training this Wednesday after an injury. Aznou, although he will wear the reserve team's number 39, will work exclusively under Funes. “The three will be exclusively with the First Division squad,” the outlet confirmed. This model provides flexibility within the 25-player registration limit for the main squad.
With the squad now complete, Málaga CF prepares for its next La Liga match against Levante. Fans can follow the team's progress and check the full schedule on our fixtures page. The current squad, with all its details, is available in the squad section.
Málaga's next fixture is the league encounter against Levante, a key duel in the early stage of the season.
