Funes says Roberto is in grace as Espanyol's aerial threat looms

Under the bright floodlights of La Rosaleda on Friday, captured by EFE, Málaga’s head coach Juan Francisco Funes previewed the eighth‑round LaLiga EA Sports clash against RCD Espanyol, describing the visitors as a “team with energy that wins aerial duels” and insisting that former Málaga striker Roberto Fernández is “in a state of grace, everything he touches becomes a goal”.

Funes praised Espanyol’s attacking width, noting that the side “does well with wide crosses in attack”. He highlighted the recent arrivals of Bryan Zaragoza and Cala, saying they can dominate from the flanks and pose a constant threat to Málaga’s defence.

Espanyol’s key players

The Catalan club also boasts a deeper roster than Málaga, with Edu Expósito and Javi Hernández offering additional arguments in attack. Yet Funes insisted that Roberto Fernández remains “in a state of grace”, implying every touch could turn into a goal for the former Málaga striker.

Data and analysis

Manolo González, likening his approach to Mourinho, reminded the media that “Los datos están aquí, para quien los quiera ver”. The quote underscores the analytical angle Funes is adopting ahead of the Friday encounter.

Sergio Escario added that the three‑week pause “gives time to see those nuances” and that the club has used it to “make adjustments”. He stressed the reality that the team must “assume” the need for change from within.

Funes concluded with genuine affection for Roberto, declaring “we have a lot of love for him, it will be a special match for him”. The Málaga boss said his side are “very eager for the game against Espanyol”, signalling a keen desire to prove themselves on home soil.