Alavés urgently need to end their run of five games without a win, and the perfect opponent to try arrives at Mendizorroza this Saturday. Deportivo Alavés host bottom-placed Málaga, a team on a nine-match winless streak, in a vital clash for both sides' La Liga aspirations.
Manager Juanfran Funes is not hiding from the pressure. "Reaching this matchday without a win has been very tough," he explained in his pre-match press conference. The coach knows the margin for error is shrinking. "Time is not unlimited, the league does not wait," he added, stressing the immediate need for three points. Funes pointed out that the team has been working on improving their offensive effectiveness, aware that opportunities at this stage of the competition are key and cannot be wasted.
The Vitoria-based side sit seventh with 11 points, but their last league win was over a month ago. Their current form reads four defeats and one draw from the last five outings, including a 2-1 loss to Celta Vigo last time out. Top scorer Lucas Boyé, with five goals, netted a penalty in the last win against Atlético Madrid, but goals have been scarce since. The manager admitted that the lack of accuracy in the final third is the main obstacle to overcome to return to winning ways.
Boosts and absences
For this match, Funes welcomes back full-back Ángel, who served a suspension. Mariano, with three goals and four assists to his name, is a clear option for the attack. Denis Suárez could also return in midfield, with his playmaking vision considered key to unlocking tight defences. The team has shown defensive solidity with a back three but needs more cutting edge. The coach confirmed that the three-centre-back system will remain a foundation, although tactical adjustments are being studied to create more danger.
The visitors arrive in an even more difficult situation. Málaga are one of only three teams in Europe's top leagues without a win this season. Also, they haven't won at Mendizorroza since before their relegation to Primera RFEF in 2023. This week they lost Joaquín Muñoz to injury and could field Aznou on the left flank. Their manager, Sergio Pellicer, is also under immense pressure due to results, adding an extra layer of intensity to the match.
With the fixtures schedule ahead, this home game looks like a golden opportunity for Alavés. A victory would allow them to consolidate a comfortable league position and break a negative trend that is starting to weigh on the dressing room. The match kicks off this Saturday at 21:00 at Mendizorroza and will be broadcast on DAZN.
More detail at 101tv.es
