Can Málaga CF earn extra days before its LaLiga debut?

Málaga CF only needs one of the national teams with Atlético de Madrid players to reach the World Cup semifinals for its opening match, scheduled for August 15‑16, to be moved to the second or third round.

Which national sides are in contention?

Spain, Norway and Argentina are already in the quarter‑finals. La Roja meets Belgium on Friday at 21:00, Norway takes on England on Saturday at 23:00, and Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, will play the winner of Switzerland‑Colombia in the early hours of Saturday‑Sunday (03:00).

How does this impact Atlético de Madrid and, consequently, Málaga CF?

Atlético has seven active World Cup players: Marc Pubill, Marcos Llorente and Álex Baena (Spain), Alexander Sorloth (Norway) and Julián Álvarez, Nahuel Molina and Giuliano Simeone (Argentina). LaLiga’s rule allows postponing the start for clubs with players in the semifinals or final, ensuring at least a week of extra rest and preparation.

What schedule would Málaga CF face if delayed?

If postponed, Málaga CF would meet Deportivo de La Coruña, Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid between the second and third matchday. The club would start pre‑season the following Monday but would gain an additional week to fine‑tune tactics and fitness.

When will the final decision be known?

The criterion will be confirmed after the World Cup quarter‑finals, slated for Sunday June 23. Should Spain, Norway or Argentina progress, the federation will announce the revised calendar before June 30. In the meantime, Málaga CF sticks to its training plan while monitoring the international results.