UD Almería make every second count in high-intensity pre-season training camp
Behind-the-scenes dedication fuels the club’s summer preparations in Marbella, as every department works around the clock to support the squad
In the final days of UD Almería’s summer training camp in Marbella, the energy around the team is palpable. The Club’s pre-season preparations go far beyond what happens on the pitch, with a network of nearly 60 professionals operating behind the scenes to ensure peak performance when the competitive season begins.
Every night, assistant coach Jaume Torras and team delegate Jorge Díaz carefully outline the next day’s individual schedules on a whiteboard, setting the rhythm for a tightly coordinated operation. The team hub, a large carpeted dining room, serves as both a social centre and strategic meeting point. With fewer than 30 players in the travelling group, the rest of the staff, coaches, medics, nutritionists, logistics coordinators and media personnel work tirelessly behind the curtain.
Mornings begin with red-letter urgency. On Wednesday, players were queuing for breakfast before the dining room even opened, reflecting the strict regimen enforced by nutritionist José González. Known for his meticulous standards, González surprised players with a body fat and mass index test, calipers in hand, no excuses allowed.
The hotel soon transforms into a hive of activity. Staff in black Macron shirts shuttle between buildings with purpose. The kit room, a model of order under the supervision of Bernardo Hernández, Juan Ventaja and Mateo Ruiz, ensures players are always equipped, often changing multiple times a day.
Downstairs, the medical unit stays lit well into the night. Club Doctor Sebastián Jiménez recently reported an injury to Bruno Iribarne—fractures to the fourth finger and metacarpal of his right hand. Physiotherapists Pedro Serrano and Eduardo Antequera, along with coordinator Cid Andrade, are always on standby, blending recovery with preventative care. Conditioning coach Álvaro Cano joins them in ensuring players are in top physical form.
In a discreet office adjoining the dining room, head coach Rubi and his staff pore over data, footage, and tactical plans. Described as the team's 'operations centre,' it is where the blueprint for each session is created, refined and discussed. Though always open to players, it remains the strategic heart of the camp
Security, transportation and also logistics are managed with military precision by Manolo Martínez, Atilio Roldán and team driver Manolo Expósito. Team Manager Salva Sevilla, team delegate Jorge Díaz and physiologist Javier Fernández bridge the gap between staff and players, handling everything from personal issues to performance concerns.
Meanwhile, photographers Pedro and Luís García, along with social media head Mario Gómez, capture and share the inner workings of the training camp, bringing fans closer to the team. The Communications Department handles all official media duties including friendly match commentary relying on strong broadband links to headquarters in Almería.
As Rubi’s side prepares for the upcoming season, the training camp in Marbella is a portrait of commitment and cohesion. From the meticulous planning to the silent contributions of those who prefer to stay out of the spotlight, UD Almería are building from the ground up with one goal: to be ready when it matters most.
The ball, as always, will have the last word.