 On 18 January 2011, after more than one year out of football, Sánchez returned to active – he had already been an unused substitute the previous week against former side Espanyol – starting in a Spanish Cup match against Villarreal CF, and helping the title holders reach the semi-finals after a 3–0 home win (6–3 on aggregate).On 23 June 2011, Sánchez left Sevilla and joined neighbours Málaga CF for €2.8 million, signing a four-year contract.He made his debut for his new club on 25 September, appearing as a right back in a 0–0 draw at Zaragoza.