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Press conference

Manolo: “We’re going to give fight to any rival”

The Club’s Sporting Director, Manolo Gaspar held a press conference this afternoon at La Rosaleda’s press room to review the recently completed transfer window.

Manolo describes the summer transfer window as “different” compared to the previous year: “From what I’ve been used to, it’s been far more straightforward. There have been two tranches, one before the agreement with CVC, and another one after. We also didn’t have a LaLiga sanction and everything that that entails. I’m very pleased”.

Gaspar made it clear that “whoever wants to play for Málaga, plays for Málaga. And whoever wants to get on the boat, gets on,” confident in the squad for the season: “We’re going to give fight to any rival. I think that improving on what we did last season is compulsory.”

When asked about names, he mentioned homegrown players such as Ismael and Benítez being in a well-covered position. “The Club continues its commitment to Isma, he’s earned his right to be in the first team, he’s one of the captains and decided to fight for the position; and Ale Benítez made the decision to stay as he wanted to play for Málaga.” He also talked about Juande’s renewal: “It was agreed, we were just waiting to announce it,” on deadline day.

Manolo also discussed the signings of Peybernes and Sekou. In regard to the Frenchman: “I tried in December of last season, but it wasn’t to be. He really made an effort on his part and here he is.” About the striker, on loan with an option to buy: “The conditions are pretty positive for us, and it was an objective of mine from the outset”.

In the final part of his speech, the Blue and White director highlighted the unity within the Club: “We are waterproof, and all go hand in hand in the same direction. The hours we put in are countless, not just Málaga’s sports management.” Following the round of questions, Manolo Gaspar talked about the Malaguista fans: “The Club is working on the season ticket campaign and we need La Rosaleda to spur the team on. We know the situation is difficult, but in the end the people always respond. I think the best signing is going to be the fans. We need to give them so much. There are 14 signings counting the fans.”