Injury woes mount as UD Almería gear up for final pre-season tests
Key central defender Nelson Monte has been sidelined with ankle sprain as Rubi’s squad faces top-flight side Elche CF and Saudi giants Al Nassr FC in crucial summer friendlies
UD Almería have entered the final week of their pre-season preparations with concerns in central defence after Portuguese centre-back Nelson Monte picked up a sprained right ankle during Sunday’s friendly against Águilas FC. Monte was forced off in the 26th minute and is now awaiting further medical evaluation.
The injury leaves head coach Rubi short on options at the heart of defence, with only Chumi and UD Almería Academy prospect Pedro Fidel available as natural centre-backs. Midfielder Dzodic, a 20-year-old summer signing, has been filling in when required, highlighting the depth concerns just two weeks before the season opener.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Bruno Iribarne, who fractured his right hand in Marbella and underwent surgery in January, is now nearing full recovery.
After Monday's recovery session, light for starters, intense for the rest, the squad has a rest day on Tuesday before ramping up the intensity with a double training session on Wednesday.
Two demanding off-season fixtures await: a Friday clash with top-flight side Elche CF in Lorca and a high-profile Sunday exhibition against Saudi giants Al Nassr FC, featuring global stars Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix and Sadio Mané.
With the league campaign kicking off against Albacete Balompié on Monday, 18 August, UD Almería are entering the final stretch of their pre-season preparations under mounting pressure.