Villarreal CF manager Íñigo Pérez has confirmed he will rotate his starting lineup for Thursday's match away to Málaga CF at La Rosaleda. The sixth round LaLiga EA Sports fixture comes just days after Monday's game against Real Betis, forcing the coach to manage his squad's workload.

The only confirmed absentee for the trip to Málaga is Argentine full-back Juan Foyth. In his press conference, Pérez explained that Monday's match necessitates giving opportunities to other players. This opens the door for potential starters like right-back Álex Freeman, midfielder Nathan Saliba, defender Sergi Cardona and forward Ayoze Pérez.

Veteran keeper between the sticks

All signs point to 36-year-old Hungarian goalkeeper Peter Gulácsi retaining his place between the posts. His experience will be key at a difficult ground like La Rosaleda, where Villarreal are searching for their first win of the season. The Yellow Submarine currently sit 19th in the standings, with just two points from a possible fifteen.

Málaga CF, a direct rival in the lower reaches, are just one point ahead. Both teams enter this clash without a victory this campaign, adding extra pressure to the encounter. The home manager, Juanfran Funes, will also be forced into changes due to several absences in his squad, including Murillo, Lobete and Cajuste.

Possible lineups and context

The predicted lineup for Villarreal includes Gulácsi in goal. The defence could be formed by Freeman, Pau Navarro, Renato Veiga and Cardona. In midfield, Comesaña, Saliba and Buchanan would have creative responsibility, while the attack would fall to Nicolás Pepe, Ayoze Pérez and Georgian striker Georges Mikautadze.

This match represents a clear opportunity to pick up three vital points ahead of a demanding schedule. The Villarreal squad, which you can review on our team page, needs to quickly find the consistency to climb the table. A positive result in Málaga would serve as an important morale boost.

The match will be played this Thursday at the Estadio La Rosaleda, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 PM.