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Diosa's Málaga Journal: Part II

Young Cosmos players David Diosa and Alexis Velela just completed a weeklong training stay with Spanish first division club Málaga CF. In the second part of Diosa's journal, he documents the last days of training and saying goodbye.
Published Feb 1, 2016

Click here for Part I

THURSDAY, JAN. 28 – FRIDAY, JAN. 29

Our final two training sessions were pretty standard, as the club was preparing for its upcoming weekend matches. The first team was readying to travel for a tough Saturday match against Eibar, who sat seventh in the league standings, while the reserves had a Sunday road game against C.D. Rincón.

We did a lot of drills focusing on our movement and quick touches on the ball. We also hit the video room to break down film on Atlético Malagueño's previous opponent and upcoming opponent. Again, it reminded me of what we do in New York with the Cosmos.

Friday was a special day since we knew it was our last day. We finished training and said goodbye, thanking the Málaga coaching staff and players. They were really nice to us from day one. After that we did an interview for the club. Our interviewer asked Alexis and I about our experience in Málaga, and what it's like to play in the United States.

When we were done with the interview, we went back home. We planned on going out for dinner, but a storm forced us to order some food to the apartment. Finally, we started packing for our flight in the morning. 

Our experience in Málaga was an unforgettable one. Having the opportunity to train in that environment, with all the talented players and coaches, was eye-opening for me. Not only did I feel like I learned a lot, but it also gave me confidence heading into preseason with the Cosmos. Getting to explore the all the city had to offer, from the beaches to the shops and restaurants, was also an awesome experience.