Sergio Ramos, at the end of his spell at Real Madrid and subsequent termination of his contract, decides to retire and become a coach for La Liga Smartbank's contenders, Málaga CF.

Low expectations, little money, half the team is made of loanees. The dillema on la Rosaleda is clear - be competitive right away or struggle for a few years and invest in Youth and prospects? Ramos believes he can do both.

In need of leadership and proved experience to solve crucial areas of the squad, Ramos goes for vintage spanish classics: former Roja's colleagues Cesc Fàbregas and Pepe Reina, who are instantly made captains. Both, alongside centre back Jonas Ramalho (arriving from Girona), account for all of the year's signings. The little budget left is spent on two very qualified scouts, whose job is to find the new Málaga boys. The first season's goal is clear - survive.

After a long and hard struggle, Málaga ends 6th on the league, going for the playoffs for access to the 1st division, and ultimately achieving said goal after beating, on knockouts, Rayo Vallecano and Zaragoza. They fall on the first stage of Copa de la España. Through thick and thin, the team displays confidence and a very scrappy, rough and vivid spirit. The squad, and how they play, are a reflection of its coach.

Players in: Jonas Ramalho (ANG); Cesc Fàbregas and Pepe Reina (SPA).

Players out: Gonzalo Crettaz (ARG); Josua Mejías (COL); Yanis Rahmani (FRA); David Lombán, Jose Matos, Joaquín Benavides, Juan Soriano, Juan Cruz and Juande Rivas (SPA).

- Hired players MUST have in-game face.