Funes talks with Murillo during a Málaga CF training session.
/ Álex Zea
Juanfran Funes faces Saturday’s match against Ceuta with two critical objectives: mathematically securing a playoff spot and effectively replacing two players who have been untouchable in his plans—Carlos Dotor and Diego Murillo. Both midfield defender and central defender will be unavailable this weekend at the Alfonso Murube. Dotor was sent off against Sporting de Gijón for a pull on Gaspar Campos as the latter was heading toward Alfonso Herrero’s goal, while Murillo reached his tenth yellow card of the season and must serve his second suspension cycle. Notably, with these same two players sidelined, Mirandés defeated Málaga at Anduva, so there is no room for error this time.
Midfield Options
Fortunately, Funes has a wider pool of candidates compared to that previous setback, especially in midfield. Despite injuries to Luismi and Juanpe, and now Dotor’s suspension, the center of the park boasts a strong group of contenders. With Izan Merino locked in as a starter, one or two spots remain open depending on whether Funes opts for one or two strikers. The candidates include Izan Merino, Dani Lorenzo, Ramón, Rafa Rodríguez, Brasanac, and Ochoa.
Brasanac started alongside Izan Merino and Dotor against Sporting de Gijón but was substituted just past the half-hour mark to make way for Chupe—a tactical change aimed at chasing a goal rather than a performance issue. In terms of skill set, Rafa Rodríguez may be the profile that best mimics Dotor’s contributions, capable of playing near the box, retaining possession, and leading the first line of pressure.
Dani Lorenzo and Ramón
One notable name is Dani Lorenzo, who completed his first full training session on Tuesday. A return after over a month out due to injury could be risky, but Funes might replicate “the Larrubia plan” used in Ipurúa: an agreement to play fewer than 60 minutes, but as a starter. The Marbella native has not played since May 1, and his comeback is crucial as a game-changer in the second division.
To manage these potential 45 minutes for Dani Lorenzo, Ramón could be his key partner in the equation. The captain has come off the bench at the start of the second half in the last two matches. The question is how much physical strain can be risked just before the playoffs. Having the captain on the pitch for longer would be great news, but his minutes must be carefully managed.
Ochoa
Ochoa is the most offensive option among Funes’ candidates. He came on in the second half against Sporting to create space and could be an effective choice against Ceuta’s imposing defensive wall. With Larrubia and Joaquín firmly holding the wings, the Irish international can exploit central spaces.
Central Defense Options
The center of defense offers fewer doubts but also fewer alternatives. Murillo has been the linchpin of the backline. Galilea and Montero have rotated, with the Seville-born Montero stepping in when the Basque Galilea was injured. When Funes had the choice in the last three matches, he consistently picked Galilea, and the former Racing Santander player now has a fresh opportunity to lock down a spot.
Interestingly, Galilea and Montero have not played together all season, but they must now unite for the penultimate matchday of LaLiga Hypermotion with playoff qualification on the line. Ángel Recio could emerge from the second tier, though that seems unlikely after his last appearance in February, when he replaced Murillo in Miranda de Ebro.
All eyes are on Funes’ two major decisions to fill the voids left by Dotor and Murillo. The team must get it right this week, though the squad is in excellent form and fully aware of what is at stake to fight until the final minute.
