Juanpe returns to Málaga group ahead of back-to-back friendlies

Málaga CF received a boost in Thursday's training session in Estepona: Juanpe has gradually rejoined group work after several days sidelined by injury. The midfielder had been out since picking up the knock against UD Las Palmas, according to Sport.

Manager Juanfran Funes's squad has continued fine-tuning tactical aspects and set-piece routines ahead of a gruelling 24-hour spell: first, this evening at 20:00 against Al-Arabi SC in Marbella (their third test after draws with Leicester and Al-Ittihad), then tomorrow at 19:00 in the Feria Trophy at the AD Ceuta FC ground.

With the official campaign looming, Juanpe's return comes with clouds overhead. The midfielder is among those flagged for a potential exit from Málaga, which is trying to trim a squad stretched to its financial limits. His availability could hinge on how the transfer window plays out over the coming days.