Málaga's options to cover Rafita's absence

The Málaga must consider the acquisition of a right-back in the winter market after Rafita Garrido, aged 22, suffered an injury to the hamstring tendon against Racing de Santander on November 7. The estimated recovery time is three to four months, while Real Betis has cooled its interest in a player whose transfer was not finalized.

Iza Carcelén, Aitor Buñuel, and Viti Rozada, three names to consider

The market offers alternatives with different financial formulas. None of the three is confirmed as a target for Málaga, but their situations allow for the identification of specific pathways to strengthen the defense without resorting to a costly transfer.

1. Iza Carcelén: experience without transfer fee

Iza Carcelén, a right-back aged 33, represents the profile of an experienced player who can be acquired without a transfer fee if he remains a free agent. His career in Spanish football would allow him to provide immediate experience, although his contractual and physical situation would need to be verified before considering him a viable option for January.

The main appeal of this route would be to avoid a significant investment in a player intended to cover a temporary absence. The uncertainty lies in his competitive rhythm and the economic conditions he might require to join the Málaga project.

2. Aitor Buñuel: experience on both flanks

Aitor Buñuel, a 28-year-old full-back, is also without a team since leaving Burgos CF in July 2026. He can play on both flanks, providing an alternative to cover more than one position during Rafita's recovery.

His contractual availability would eliminate the need to negotiate a transfer, although salary and physical condition remain to be resolved. Compared to negotiating for a player with an active contract, this would be an option that allows for expenditure to be focused on salaries and signing bonuses.

3. Viti Rozada: an option conditioned by his recovery

Viti Rozada, a right-back aged 29, belongs to UD Las Palmas and is contracted until June 2027. His market value is estimated to be around 1.2-1.5 million euros, according to consulted estimates.

The main obstacle is physical: Rozada underwent surgery on the meniscus of his left knee in September, and his return depends on his medical progression. A loan in January could be considered if he returns to competition and Las Palmas agrees to negotiate, but currently, none of these conditions can be taken for granted.

MCF || 😱 VARAPALO RAFITA: baja entre 3 y 4 meses ➡️ El lateral sufre una lesión en el tendón conjunto de los músculos isquiotibiales ℹ️ @RafAlcaraz #MerchanEnDirecto || #MálagaCF https://t.co/y1xUo6zrEz

— Radio Marca Málaga (@RadioMarcaMLG) November 9, 2026

Real Betis cools down the operation for Rafita

The interest of Real Betis in Rafita does not equate to a closed deal. Reports published in early November indicated that the verdiblanco club had him among its targets, but also noted that no definitive agreement existed. The injury now forces a reconsideration of the timelines for any possible acquisition.

The Málaga has a contract with Rafita until 2029, and reports regarding his release clause place it at 10 million euros. His recovery will be crucial for any future negotiation, while the Málaga club must prepare for the January market, which will open on January 2, 2027, and close on February 2.

The decision for Málaga will depend on whether they seek a temporary solution or a signing with longevity beyond the injury. Carcelén and Buñuel offer the route of free agents; Rozada, a possible loan conditional on his physical state. For now, they are alternatives to consider, not confirmed negotiations.