Juanfran Funes warned that Betis, under Chilean Manuel Pellegrini, ranks among Spain’s elite, boasts game‑changing talent and remains dangerously attractive – can they rise to the challenge?
The bottom‑placed Malaga, fresh from a 0‑3 Copa del Rey win over modest Sporting de Alcazar, noted Betis spreads the field wide, creating pockets in the inside lanes.
He added that the verdiblanco side has transformed since the opening round, now brimming with confidence and a completely different character.
Funes described the Andalusian derby as special, especially given the circumstances, and said a wave of Malaga supporters traveling to La Cartuja will make it unforgettable.
We’ll enjoy it a lot. Will this spark a surge that lifts Malaga out of the relegation zone?
It must be a football fiesta, he declared, recalling that Betis fields former Malaga stars like Isco, Fornals and Llorente, plus Pellegrini’s staff – in my view, that shared history gives Malaga an extra edge.
He revealed that Atletico Malagueño still rehearses a corner routine dubbed “Isco,” and facing players who left their mark here is highly motivating.
Funes hopes the cup triumph in Alcázar will reverse the team’s slump, stressing that wins always strengthen morale; after a 1‑1 draw at Vitoria, the squad felt markedly reinforced.
“It’s a breath of fresh air,” he said, adding the derby offers a chance for Malaga fans to enjoy themselves, that defending with the ball is far better, and that the opposition’s lethal transitions leave no room for sloppy possession.