Malaga is set to take the pitch at Mendizorroza with a radically overhauled starting eleven as manager Juanfran Funes implements sweeping tactical changes in pursuit of the team’s first victory of the campaign. The most significant personnel decision sees the benching of Cordoba-born forward Carlos Ruiz Rubio, widely known as Chupe, who has struggled to find his form during a difficult stretch for the club.
In Chupe’s place, Adrian Nino draws the start after enjoying a prolific run in front of goal. Funes has also handed a starting berth to Aznou, who has previously struggled to secure consistent playing time due to persistent physical setbacks. Meanwhile, the central defense pairing of Einar and Recio is reunited after recent matches saw Calero deployed alongside the Basque central defender.
Malaga’s confirmed starting lineup features Alfonso in goal, supported by a defensive line consisting of Puga, Recio, Einar, and Rafita. The midfield and attacking sectors feature Dotor and Ramon anchoring the center, alongside Aznou, Dani Lorenzo, and Larrubia supporting Nino in the attack. Hosts Deportivo Alaves counter with Sivera in goal, flanked by a starting formation that includes Tenaglia, Koski, Valentini, Rebbach, Alena, Antonio Blanco, Pablo Ibanez, Angel Perez, Boye, and Mariano Diaz.
While Malaga is not yet facing an existential crisis, the club is acutely aware of its urgent need for maximum points. Failure to secure a victory in the Basque Country would extend a winless drought to ten consecutive matches and leave the squad anchored at the bottom of the league standings.
Funes recognizes the necessity for drastic alterations, though the blanquiazul squad continues to struggle with the demands of top-flight competition. Observers note that the challenges of competing in the Primera Division have proven formidable for the Martiricos side, which faces an uphill battle to reverse its early-season trajectory.
