UD Almería wrap up Marbella training camp with goalless draw

UD Almería brought their 10-day pre-season training camp in Marbella to a close with a 0-0 draw against Marbella FC in what was their third warm-up match of the summer. The fixture, held at the La Quinta complex, saw head coach Rubi continue to fine-tune his tactical set-up, giving extended minutes to key players and handing a debut to new signing André Horta.

The Portuguese midfielder, recently signed from SC Braga and with Champions League and Europa League experience under his belt, impressed in his first game with the Rojiblancos. Unlike previous friendlies where Rubi rotated 2 entirely different XIs between halves, this time he opted for greater continuity, allowing certain players to build rhythm and cohesion.

UD Almería lined up with Fernando in goal; Marcos Luna, Chumi, Nelson Monte and Álex Muñoz across the back; Selvi and Horta in midfield; Embarba, Arribas, Perovic and Lázaro completing the attack. In the second half, Arnau, Soko and Gui Guedes were introduced early, with further changes made on the hour and in the 76th minute.

Despite a disjointed first half, where the side struggled to impose their game, UD Almería looked sharper after the break. The tempo improved, combinations were cleaner and chances began to flow, most notably through Soko, who missed two clear opportunities to break the deadlock. Defensively, the team stayed compact and composed, keeping Marbella FC’s experienced forward Rodri Ríos at bay in his debut.

Following the match and a final meal at their Marbella base, The Westin La Quinta, the squad returned to Almería city. The Indálicos will rest on Friday, resume with a double training session on Saturday behind closed doors at the Anexo and conclude the week with another friendly, this time against Águilas FC on Sunday at El Rubial Stadium for the Alfonso García Zapata Trophy.