The international break, often a source of anxiety for club managers, has presented Málaga CF with a relatively manageable situation. While the “FIFA virus”—the disruption caused by players departing for international duty—was anticipated, the club appears to have weathered the storm better than feared. Málaga will be without two key players for crucial upcoming matches, but the absences could have been more extensive. This latest instance of the “virus FIFA”, a recurring challenge for clubs during international windows, will test their depth as they navigate a critical stretch of the La Liga season.
Midfielder Aaron Ochoa has received his first call-up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21 team, while forward Adrián Niño has been selected for the Spain Under-21 squad, commonly known as *La Rojita*. Both players will miss Málaga’s upcoming fixtures, beginning with the La Liga match against CD Leganés on Saturday, March 28th. They will likewise be unavailable for the mid-week clash against Andorra on Wednesday, April 1st, a game that could prove pivotal in Málaga’s push for a higher league finish. The club confirmed on their official website that neither Izan Merino nor Chupete have been called up to their respective national teams, a positive development given their recent strong performances.
Niño’s Continued Recognition with Spain
Adrián Niño’s inclusion in the Spain Under-21 squad isn’t a surprise, as the 21-year-old forward has consistently featured under coach David Gordo. Niño, who currently trails Chupete in the pecking order for the starting striker position, has nonetheless made a significant contribution this season, scoring seven goals in all competitions for Málaga CF, according to Transfermarkt. His consistent form has clearly caught the attention of the national team selectors. He will join *La Rojita* for matches against Cyprus on March 27th and Kosovo on March 31st, providing him with valuable international experience.
Ochoa Earns First Ireland Under-21 Call-Up
For Aaron Ochoa, the call-up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21 team represents a significant milestone in his career. The 20-year-old midfielder has been a regular participant in Ireland’s youth setups, including the Under-19 team, and now steps up to the Under-21 level. He has been selected by head coach Jim Crawford for two crucial European Championship qualifying matches: against Moldova Under-21 on March 26th and Kazakhstan Under-21 on March 31st. This opportunity allows Ochoa to showcase his talent on a larger stage and compete for a place in future senior squads.
Impact on Málaga’s Squad Depth
The temporary loss of Ochoa and Niño undoubtedly presents a challenge for Málaga manager José Alberto López. Ochoa is considered a key player in organizing the team’s midfield play, providing stability and dictating tempo. Niño, despite not being the first-choice striker, has proven to be a potent goal-scoring threat, netting 14 goals across all competitions this season, as reported by La Liga’s official website. His ability to uncover the back of the net has been crucial, and there was even speculation he could be considered for a future call-up to the Spanish senior national team.
However, the fact that key players like Izan Merino and Chupete were not selected for international duty provides some relief. Merino’s creative playmaking abilities and Chupete’s goal-scoring prowess will remain available for Málaga’s league matches. This allows López to maintain a degree of continuity in his starting lineup and tactical approach.
Looking Ahead: Leganés and Andorra
Málaga’s immediate focus is on the match against CD Leganés on March 28th. Leganés currently occupies a mid-table position in La Liga, and the match represents an opportunity for Málaga to climb the standings. The subsequent match against Andorra on April 1st will be equally key, as Andorra are fighting to avoid relegation. Navigating these two fixtures without Ochoa and Niño will require a collective effort from the entire Málaga squad, and López will demand to rely on his bench players to step up and deliver.
The club will provide updates on the players’ return to training following their international commitments through their official Twitter account. Fans can also find the latest news and match information on the La Liga official website.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute professional sports advice. Team lineups and player availability are subject to change.
What do you think? Will Málaga be able to overcome the absence of these key players? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow football fans.
Keep reading
