Málaga travel to Madrid with six players unavailable

Málaga make their return to La Liga this Wednesday after eight years in the wilderness, and they do so at the Metropolitano against Atlético Madrid (21:00). However, coach Funes Mori will have to manage a significant injury list for the occasion.

According to MARCA, the team travels to the capital with 22 players, but faces notable absences in defense. Murillo and Fernando Calero, two central defenders expected to be key pieces in the Málaga backline, are both sidelined. Aarón Ochoa is also unavailable due to injury, plus a one-match ban.

Uncertainty in the transfer market

Left out of the squad are Dani Sánchez, Juanpe, and Moussa Diarra, players still resolving their futures. The club continues to work on late transfer business.

Chance for the young guns

On the positive side, Juani and Otu Jr., two academy players, have made the trip and could make their professional debuts if given minutes. Carlos Dotor also returns after recovering from his injury issues. The return to the top flight after so long promises to be thrilling, despite the difficulties.