Dani Lorenzo Shines While Montero Frozen Out in Funes' Málaga Revolution
A tale of two players as Funes transforms Málaga CF: academy product Lorenzo flourishes in midfield while big-money signing Montero watches from the bench.
Dani Lorenzo Shines While Montero Frozen Out in Funes’ Málaga Revolution
Málaga’s fortunes have taken a dramatic upturn since Sergio Funes replaced Pellicer in the dugout, with the new gaffer’s selection choices creating clear winners and losers in the squad.
Lorenzo: The Golden Boy
If there’s one player absolutely loving life under the new regime, it’s Dani Lorenzo. The Marbella-born attacking midfielder has been given the freedom of La Rosaleda and is repaying that faith in spades. After struggling with a pubis injury that kept him sidelined for much of last season, Lorenzo has become the creative heartbeat of this resurgent Málaga side.
His goal against Albacete was the cherry on top of what’s been a stellar few weeks for the academy product. The club clearly recognizes his value too - they’re already working on extending his contract until 2029. Talk about a proper vote of confidence!
Montero: Left in the Cold
On the complete opposite end of the spectrum sits Javi Montero, who must be wondering what he’s done to deserve such a dramatic fall from grace. The former Racing defender hasn’t played a single minute in the league under Funes, with his only appearance coming in the Copa del Rey.
This is quite the turn-up for the books considering Montero started 12 of 14 matches under Pellicer. Even more painful when you consider he’s reportedly one of the highest earners at the club. From nailed-on starter to watching from the stands - football can be a right old game of two halves.
The Funes Effect
The new manager has shown he’s not afraid to shake things up:
- Recio, who had played just one match all season, has suddenly become a key figure
- Galilea has featured more in Funes’ short tenure than in the entire 14 matches under Pellicer
- Niño’s goals have been crucial to the team’s improved form
Four games into the Funes era and Málaga look a more solid outfit. The tactical reshuffle has breathed new life into some careers while putting others on ice. Lorenzo’s emergence as the midfield conductor represents exactly what the gaffer wants from his team - progressive, dynamic football with the academy product as its beating heart.
Montero, meanwhile, might want to have a butcher’s hook at his options come January if things don’t change drastically.