The early-season schedule has exposed the frailties of Málaga CF. The Blue and Whites, sitting 19th with just three points, have lost all three of their matches against sides competing in this season's Champions League.
Funes's team fell to Atlético Madrid (2-0), Real Madrid (4-0), and, this past Thursday, Villarreal (1-3) at La Rosaleda. Their other three games, against Deportivo, Levante, and Celta Vigo, all ended in draws. This record of zero wins from six matches paints a difficult picture, particularly when facing the league's elite. Their recent form is a concern, managing just two shots on target in their last match against Celta, while a leaky defence has conceded eleven goals in six games.
A reality check
"Málaga CF and its fans suffered another hard dose of reality this Thursday," said Manuel García. The match against Villarreal was a clear example. Despite taking an early lead through Carlos Dotor in the 12th minute, the team was second-best for the remainder. The Yellow Submarine equalised before the break and, after halftime, dominated with greater possession and physical power, sealing their superiority with two more goals.
The analysis is stark. In that game, Málaga managed only one shot on target, which was the goal. Against Celta, the attacking output was similarly meagre, with just two shots on target from Adrián Niño and Pablo Martínez. A lack of cutting edge combines with a leaky defence that has conceded eleven goals in six games, including four against Madrid and three against Villarreal.
The immediate challenge: Getafe
The schedule offers no respite. The next opponent is Getafe, this Saturday at 18:30 at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez. It will be the fifth European competition opponent in the first seven matchdays, as the Azulones are in the Conference League. A win would be key, allowing Málaga to climb out of the relegation zone just before the international break.
The coaching staff hopes to welcome back key players. Defender Murillo is ready to return, while Calero continues his rehabilitation and is expected to be available in a couple of weeks. In attack, the options involve giving more responsibility to Moleiro, Ilias, Ayoze, or the youngster Chupe, seeking greater creativity. The full squad and their numbers are available on our stats page.
With the team fifteen points off the top, the priority is clear: get points immediately. The match against 16th-placed Getafe presents a golden opportunity to stop the rot and prove they can compete. The key will be improving defensive solidity and finding more potency in the final third. Fans can follow the season's progress and check the live standings.
Background and full detail: Sport.es
