Malaga has been working on a renovation project for La Rosaleda stadium. Following the project presented just over a month ago, it's clear that Malaga aims to have one of the best stadiums in Spain, with aspirations to host the 2030 World Cup.

Following the best examples

Francisco de la Torre, the mayor of Malaga, discussed the planned modernization of La Rosaleda with Cope: We want to do something not just for sports. Our ambition is to have a roof like at the Bernabéu. We will cover the stadium and lay down horizontally sliding turf, not vertically. This is a good opportunity for the city and we must consider it.

This investment would not be easy to implement and would significantly increase the project's costs, but it could provide the city with infrastructure that would be used for more than just football. If previously €110 million was mentioned, incorporating these features would undoubtedly raise this amount. Therefore, the goal of all parties is to check if there is a private entity that will allow us to finance the entire investment, explained the mayor.

© Junta de Andalucía

Several obstacles

The new La Rosaleda would not only serve as a football stadium but also be used for cultural events. However, a major obstacle is the nearby public university, as expanding the stadium northward would be necessary. Negotiations are currently underway with the Ministry of Education to resolve this issue.

Another issue, which appears to be resolved, is the construction of a metro station in close proximity to La Rosaleda. While good transportation has always been a priority for FIFA, it doesn't seem to be Malaga's main focus. According to De la Torre: The metro is close by and could be brought a bit closer, but it's not an essential requirement. We are at a complex but very interesting moment.

© Junta de Andalucía

In four years' time

A significant challenge now is finalizing the project to determine the ultimate cost. Just over €100 million. Perhaps €120 million or €130 million. These are approximate figures. It all depends on the quality of materials and price increases. And if we include a hotel, it could even reach €200 million, De la Torre explained.

It is assumed that construction on the new stadium will begin in 2025 and last for 3 years. Subsequently, the redevelopment of the Martiricos area will commence, including the creation of 5,000 parking spaces and possibly the aforementioned metro line.