Malaga CF welcome Pablo Martínez as Juanpe seals Gamba Osaka move

Pablo Martínez made his first appearance in training for Malaga CF on Saturday as the club continues to reshape the squad ahead of Monday’s home opener against Deportivo A Coruña.

The 28-year-old midfielder joined head coach Juanfran Funes’s session after signing a one-year contract with the option of a further season. He had been a free agent since leaving Levante on 30 June and was immediately introduced to his new teammates.

According to Funes, Martínez arrived in good physical condition despite not completing a conventional pre-season. He'll likely be included in the squad for Monday’s match at La Rosaleda, featuring, if necessary, off the bench.

That's because Martínez still needs time to adapt to Funes’s playing style and build the necessary understanding with his colleagues.

The new man will supplement the 22 players selected for Wednesday’s 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid. In a positive development, goalkeeper and captain Alfonso Herrero has returned to full training after an individual session on Friday, Funes said.

However, Aaron Ochoa, Adrián Niño, Fernando Calero, Moussa and Diego Murillo continue their respective injury recoveries and will miss the match.

Meanwhile, Juanpe completed his departure from Malaga and signed for Japanese club Gamba Osaka. The midfielder ended a three-season spell at La Rosaleda, having made 66 appearances, scored once and provided two assists.

Juanpe said he was "happy to join Gamba Osaka" and had been impressed by the way they played, adding: “I’ll give everything to help Gamba Osaka achieve their goals.”

Malaga are still expected to make at least two more signings before the transfer window closes on 1 September, with a left-back and a defensive midfielder who can also operate at centre-back among their priorities.