Rafita's form at the start of the season has reopened the debate over Málaga CF's final transfer moves, with the window closing in one week. According to a report by Sport.es, the club is aiming for two signings, but the player's emergence has forced a rethink of the initial strategy.
Sporting director Loren Juarros stated this week that the team will "try to do a couple of things in the market." The priority positions remain a defensive midfielder and a left-sided player. However, Rafita's performances as the starting left-back, ahead of new signing Salinas, have introduced a new factor into the planning.
How has Rafita changed the transfer plans?
Rafita, who was initially slated to compete for the right-back spot with Carlos Puga, has been a revelation early in the campaign. His notable displays against Atlético de Madrid and Deportivo have secured him the starting left-back role. This has led the board to question whether signing a dedicated left-back is necessary. If a new player arrives for that position, Rafita would shift to the right to compete with Puga, an option that is gaining traction.
The situation is complicated by defensive absences. Centre-backs Calero and Murillo are injured and will not return until October, while Álex Pastor is being brought back to fitness cautiously. Consequently, the club is seeking a versatile player who can operate as both a defensive midfielder and a centre-back, a profile that becomes more important. The name most strongly linked for that role is Serbian Nemanja Gudelj, with whom Málaga CF is in negotiations. Gudelj has other offers and a high salary, but the Málaga CF-based club hopes its proximity to Sevilla will work in its favour.
Why is the need for a winger pressing?
The other major internal debate centres on the flanks. Loren Juarros admitted that an injury "has made us change the plan we had somewhat." That setback is Aarón Ochoa's meniscus injury, which has an unknown return date. This issue, combined with Adrián Niño's muscular problem in the soleus, has left the squad short of options on the wings.
Larrubia and Joaquín are the starters, with Haitam and Juan Cruz as their direct backups. Lobete, who played centrally against Deportivo, is not expected to feature much on the wing. This shortage has made the club seriously consider investing in a winger instead of, or in addition to, a full-back. You can check the full squad status on our injuries page.
What does the Málaga CF squad look like for the deadline?
Málaga CF's transfer window has been active, with Salinas and Pablo Martínez as new arrivals. But there have also been departures, like Víctor García, and Dani Sánchez is close to terminating his contract. The team is not oversupplied with wingers, so a new arrival in that position would have immediate room.
The top priority remains the defensive midfield slot, with Gudelj the main target. The potential signing of a left-back will depend on the final decision regarding Rafita. Meanwhile, the board is weighing whether limited resources should be used to cover the gap left by Ochoa and Niño. The Segunda División schedule is demanding, and having a competitive squad is key for the season's objectives, as seen in our standings section.
With the transfer deadline looming, next week will be decisive. Loren Juarros and his team have a sporting puzzle on their hands where the form of one player, Rafita, has shifted all the pieces. The coming hours will define whether Málaga CF opts to strengthen the defence or add more depth to the attack.
