Málaga’s “beasts” (as Juanfran Funes calls his players) stormed Ipurua for the first time in a decade, reigniting hope among fans after two consecutive defeats had knocked them out of the playoff spots. This prestigious victory keeps the blue-and-whites’ options wide open.
A key highlight was Ramón Enríquez (born in Órgiva, Granada, on April 19, 2001) reaching 100 official appearances for Málaga. His debut came on August 17, 2019, in Santander. That day, Víctor Sánchez del Amo had to field a makeshift lineup because salary cap issues prevented Okazaki, Mula, José Rodríguez, and Iván Rodríguez from playing. It was the Málaga of just 18 professional players.
Had it not been for injuries, Ramón would have shone much earlier as the great footballer he is. With exquisite technique, vision, intelligent passing, excellent positioning, and leadership qualities, he stands out. He proved it in Eibar when he came on at halftime for Izan Merino, who was on a yellow card. “We didn’t plan to give him so many minutes. We wanted to manage it more carefully,” Funes said in the post-match press conference. The midfielder added: “This team has shown all season that it’s not just the starting eleven, but the whole bench—we share the same idea and unity. That’s our strength.”
Juanfran Funes during the Eibar-Málaga match. (Javi Colmenero)
Ramón is the sole survivor from the club’s difficult era. He seems like a veteran, but he’s only 25. The feeling is that he has finally emerged from the tunnel. “It’s true I’ve been out of the pitch for a long time. I think the fitness coaches and physios have done a great job. We’ve had many weeks of training. This is the time to step up and take risks. No problem at all,” he said.
Mental strength has been crucial in overcoming each setback in the form of injuries, which always struck when he was at his best. “We focus on the positives. Every week we increase training loads and minutes, and most importantly, we feel good. It’s been a long injury layoff. We were clear we didn’t want to take two steps back.”
Ramón embraces Brasanac. (Javi Colmenero)
Larrubia and Brasanac
Another exciting development was the return of David Larrubia to the pitch. The “Mago” (Wizard) had missed three games due to a scaphoid injury that raised fears of a longer absence. He lasted an hour. While not at his season-best level due to the layoff, he showed the special touches that earned him his nickname.
And another positive was Darko Brasanac. Funes revealed that the Serbian gave the pre-match motivational speech, which worked like magic. With just two minutes of play in the previous five months, Brasanac delivered a standout performance, anchoring the midfield and scoring a fine goal, showing perfect chemistry with Joaquín Muñoz.
Brasanac embraced by Dotor. (Javi Colmenero)
His reflections: “We come every day to enjoy and give our best. Those who know me know I’m always ready. When healthy, I give everything in training and in matches. I try to help. Throughout the season, we’ve seen many players, after long spells without playing, come out and compete.”
SD Eibar – Málaga CF
Notables and standout performers from Málaga: ‘the beasts’ put on a show.