Juanfran Funes spoke on the eve of the Málaga-Sporting clash, a crucial match in the playoff race for the Blanquiazul side. The coach delivered key news: Dani Lorenzo is likely to return after several weeks out with a soleus injury. “Dani trained yesterday and today. He’s a call-up option, very likely to be included. Let him experience that moment; we’ll decide later, and he could play with the team,” Funes said.
Dani Lorenzo this week. ISIDRO GONZALEZ
The team is riding high after a strong victory in Eibar, and now face a Sporting side with no relegation worries, who recently announced Borja Jiménez won’t continue next season at El Molinón. “The team is in good shape. We’ve had a solid week with plenty of training. Recovering players after a demanding match in Eibar has helped. We came in with some heavy fatigue, but this week has been positive. We know Sporting well. They haven’t quite hit their promotion target, but they have excellent players—no need to name names, they have a deep squad, well coached. We’ll face a great team. The news about Borja not staying… the key is to isolate ourselves from that and focus on our own game.”
On Chupe and Rafa: “It’s been a tough week, without naming names, but having Rafa and Chupe available is important. Rafa’s issue is less complex than Chupe’s, who has an ankle problem and a hamstring overload. He’s been feeling better. There are still days for full recovery. No issues. It happened with Larrubia last week; having players ready to compete is great news. And those still catching up, like Dani Sánchez.”
Chupe in Málaga’s Friday session. ISIDRO GONZALEZ
On Juani and Arriaza from the youth team: “They’ll probably complete the week with the first team. They’ll surely help us, maybe more next week. We have several players who can be called up. Two players we trust completely and will keep training with us.”
Funes on facing a rival with nothing at stake: “It’s hard for a player to even think about relaxing in such important matches. Things can go well or badly, but not due to lack of effort. Don’t forget Sporting’s caliber—they have great players who, under different circumstances, would be playing a crucial match. We know Segunda. Sporting is more than just Corredera, Dubasin, Otero… a strong core of players, but they have a deep squad. With respect and humility.”
On the mental work with the squad: “We focus on one thing: the next match. It lets you draw a curtain on other thoughts. We talk about the players. There’s a huge challenge for those of us close to them. The players set such a high bar that we think about designing good training to match what they’re doing. Now that it excites fans, that they bring us to an emotional level of play, the rest of us must rise to their level. The board finding resources, the press focusing on the positives without generating debates. We all face that challenge. It’s what gives our fans hope. You have to be aware that the week gives you the chance to make the fans proud when the match ends on Saturday. Don’t wait for it to happen—let’s say it now.”
