Malaga vs Levante preview - Monreal happy to commit to Malaga

Posted Saturday, September 15, 2012 by PA

Spain international Nacho Monreal has committed his future to Malaga and is looking forward to a big week for the Andalusians.

There has been speculation that the 26-year-old left-back could be the next big name to leave Malaga due to their financial troubles, but he has been quick to quash those rumours to give his side a boost ahead of an exciting period for the club.

Manuel Pellegrini's men could go to the top of the Primera Division table with a win over Levante before making their debut in the Champions League against Zenit St Petersburg on Tuesday.

Monreal told AS: "I was desperate to participate in the Champions League. We now have a very nice season in front of us and I've never had the chance to play in the group stages of this competition before so my head is solely in Malaga.

"First though Levante is a very difficult team. They are on quite a good run and we can't forget the great season they had last year in which they were the revelation of the league and finished in an excellent position.

"They have started their participation in the Europa League well and it will be a tough game."

Pellegrini is not expected to risk some of his key players such as Martin Demichelis and Jeremy Toulalan who are carrying knocks ahead of Tuesday so there could be rare starts for Sergio Sanchez and Duda.

Levante, meanwhile, are also having to adjust to the dual rigours of domestic and European football for the first time, but manager Juan Ignacio Martinez insists their recent success means they will not be scared when travelling to La Rosaleda.

He told Marca: "We are not going with any fear. We know it will be a difficult match and it is a difficult place to go because of the way they play. It is what happens with all Pellegrini teams, they treat the ball very well and create a lot of chances. We will do everything to make sure they don't get an early goal."

Vicente Iborra is suspended for the visitors so Miguel Pallardo could start in midfield, but David Navarro returns from his ban and should retake his place at the heart of the defence.