Málaga CF will not play again in LaLiga EA Sports until Friday 9 October, a period they must use to work physically, tactically and mentally to turn around their league situation. The team managed by Funes, who sit bottom of the table with just three points, faces a break of almost three weeks that could define their season.
The Málaga CF coach will have the entire squad at his disposal during this time, as no first-team or youth players have received international call-ups. This allows for a concentrated block of work at La Rosaleda, with the main goal of improving a performance that has left the team on the worst run in the competition. Málaga have zero wins from seven matchdays and have lost their last two games, including the 1-0 defeat to Getafe on 20 September.
Injury recoveries
The break comes at a key time for the recovery of several important absentees. Defender Fernando Calero, who suffered three fractured ribs in mid-August in Ceuta, is already training with the group and could be available after the break. His return would be a significant boost for a defence that has conceded twelve goals.
However, the outlook is more complex for other cases. Diego Murillo continues his recovery and is expected to return in November. Midfielder Cajuste, who played only a few minutes against Levante, missed the matches against Celta, Villarreal and Getafe with a muscular injury and his progress is being closely monitored. The most prolonged situation is that of Ochoa, whose return is not anticipated until the end of this year or early 2027. Youngster Aznou, meanwhile, is still awaiting his official debut with the first team.
The attacking urgency
Beyond recoveries, tactical work is focused on solving the team's biggest problem: a lack of goals. With only three scored, the worst record in the category, Málaga are struggling to create clear chances, especially from wide areas. The team needs to find greater fluidity and accuracy to try and secure their first three points of the season.
The next opponent, Espanyol, will visit La Rosaleda on 9 October at 21:00. The pericos currently sit in 15th place, making the clash a direct opportunity to close the gap in the standings. Planning for that match is already underway, and fans can check all the details on the club's fixtures page.
Possible market moves
The club's sporting direction is also evaluating options to strengthen the squad. The possibility of signing a free-agent player during this break is being considered, although waiting for the January transfer window is also on the table. Any decision will be subject to the team's urgent needs and the availability of options that can provide an immediate impact.
The schedule after the Espanyol match includes a trip to face Alavés, so building confidence at home is vital. The squad's status and injury progress can be followed in the injuries section of the website. Málaga CF need an urgent reset, and these three weeks without competition are their only window to attempt it before a decisive October.
Background and full detail: Sport.es
