Santa Cruz returns to Spain - Striker makes season-long move to Malaga

Roque Santa Cruz: Joined City from Blackburn Rovers in 2009 for £17million

Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz has joined Spanish side Malaga on a season-long loan.

The Paraguayan was expected to leave the Etihad Stadium before the transfer deadline having fallen well down the pecking order in Roberto Mancini's plans.

Santa Cruz spent the last campaign with Real Betis and will now return to Spain for 2012/13 after passing a medical.

Malaga said in a statement: "Malaga football club and Manchester City have come to an agreement over the loan of Paraguay-born striker Roque Santa Cruz for one season."

The Primera Liga club will be playing in the UEFA Champions League after on Thursday being drawn in Group C with AC Milan, Zenit St Petersburg and Anderlecht.

Santa Cruz joined City from Blackburn Rovers in 2009 for £17million but has scored just four goals for City.