Funes warns of fatigue, opens the door for Rafa Rodríguez and changes Larrubia's role

Málaga Club de Fútbol

Fatigue can lead to changes

The main concern for Málaga is the physical condition of the squad. Funes confirmed that there have been no new injuries, but there is significant accumulated wear and tear. "There are players with a lot of fatigue. We will have to manage them well in the timeframes". In addition, the coach explained that he will wait to see how each player recovers before deciding who starts the match. "We will see how they finish recovering. That is where we will decide who can start and who can come on later". Therefore, there is a risk of changes and more controlled minutes among the players with the highest workload.

Larrubia will keep appearing as a second striker

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David Larrubia
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One of the most interesting tactical updates affects David Larrubia. Funes explained that he already knew that role from his time in the youth team and that his most recent minutes playing from inside were positive. "It is a resource we are going to use more than once during the season". His ability to receive between the lines and eliminate opponents makes the second striker a real option for him. In fantasy, Larrubia can gain value if he starts showing up in positions closer to the area.

Berrocal keeps moving forward in his adaptation

Juan Berrocal continues to make progress following his recent arrival. Funes said he needs time both physically and to adapt to the team's model, although he was already able to make his debut in Vigo. "It will help us, like in Vigo". With more training sessions under his belt, the centre-back should gradually increase his role.

Rafa Rodríguez could get his chance

Another name to watch is Rafa Rodríguez. Funes highlighted the player's energy in particular and clearly opened the door for him to have a bigger role. "It could be a good moment for him". With several teammates affected by fatigue, Rafa Rodríguez appears as one of the players who could benefit from workload management.

Calero enters the final stage of his recovery

Good news also with Fernando Calero. The defender is already taking part in training and is in the final stage of his recovery. "He is in the very last phase of his recovery process". Everything points to the break coming especially well for him to complete his match fitness and be available when competition resumes.

The two-striker setup remains an alternative

Funes also does not rule out using two forwards again. The coach believes that playing with a double striker can help especially when the opponent presses high and spaces open up at long range. "It is a very interesting option". It does not seem like a fixed shape, but rather a variation that could appear during the match or even from the start depending on the context.

Recio maintains a high level

Funes also highlighted the performance of Ángel Recio. The centre-back has taken advantage of defensive absences and has responded with a lot of consistency. "Recio is competing at a very good level". The coach particularly values his maturity and consistency, which allows him to keep earning trust and minutes.