Málaga add Mathijsen and Toulalan to summer spree
Friday, June 17, 2011
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Málaga CF have completed their fourth and fifth summer signings with the acquisitions of Hamburger SV's Joris Mathijsen and Jérémy Toulalan from Olympique Lyonnais.
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Málaga CF have continued to bolster their squad ahead of next season with the acquisition of Netherlands defender Joris Mathijsen and France midfielder Jérémy Toulalan.
Malaga finished 11th last season, but only three points clear of the relegation zone and hope Mathijsen, 31, can provide steel to a defence which leaked 68 goals – only bottom side UD Almería conceded more. His capture on a two-year deal follows the signings of compatriot Ruud van Nistelrooy, Argentinian midfielder Diego Buonanotte and Spain left-back Nacho Monreal.
Mathijsen started his career with spells at Willem II and AZ Alkmaar before joining Hamburg, where he spent five successful years at the heart of their defence. The experienced centre-back made his international bow in 2004 and has amassed 72 caps, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup final defeat by Spain.
Toulalan, who has signed a four-year contract, also has plenty of international pedigree having won 36 caps for France. The midfielder, 27, who also filled in at the heart of Olympique Lyonnais' defence last term, has spent his entire career in his homeland since making his debut for FC Nantes in March 2002. He started five UEFA Champions League games last season.
