Press conference
Rubi: 'The match against Córdoba CF is a high-risk game for us'
The UD Almería head coach highlights the opponents' season as they are still unbeaten on home turf, but does not hesitate to stress that his team will go all out for a victory at the Nuevo Arcángel Stadium, arguing that the Spanish Cup tie against Sevilla FC is an important reference at the start of 2025
'The match against Córdoba CF is a high-risk game for us, speaking from a competitive perspective and the result,' said UD Almería head coach when making an assessment of the first return fixture of 2025. He praised the opponents, who are still unbeaten at the Nuevo Arcángel Stadium, although he also had full confidence in his team, especially taking into account the Spanish Cup victory clinched over against Sevilla FC because they have not competed in the LaLiga Hypermotion since 22nd December 2024.
UD Almería are facing a packed schedule this week, with 3 games since on Wednesday they once again play the Spanish Cup round of 16. The Catalan highlighted that now they are only focused on this Sunday's encounter at the New Archangel Stadium, which is going to be extremely tough: 'We focus on Córdoba CF's unbeaten at home capacity as a motivation. What is certain is that they don't have any pressure after this streak of results and finish 2024 with their first victory as visitors in Oviedo,' Rubi pointed out.
'They already showed us in the opening half of the first game against them what they're capable of. They're having a great season with a proposal that he has to feel proud of as a recently promoted player,' he added.
When asked if he would change the system to be able to beat Córdoba CF, Rubi responded: 'Córdoba CF's numbers are extraordinary, but there will be no variations, although in each match and taking into account the opponents we always look for some small changes. UD Almería face this first league meeting of the year after closing out 2024 with 12 consecutive games without losing: 'The positive streak will end one day, but after so long undefeated, an atmosphere of ambition has been created in which the team always wants more. Furthermore, the victory against Sevilla FC in the Spanish Cup has brought us great vibes,' he said.
Rubi confirmed the known absences of Melero, due to suspension, and those of Gui Guedes and Baba, due to injury. Meanwhile, he announced that Fernando, Robertone and Léo Baptistão are available. There is one training session ahead this Saturday and the coaching staff will have to check on some footballers who went down with the flu. When questioned about Melero's absence and how he will make up for it, the Vilassar de Mar native pointed out: 'It's another challenge for everyone. Robertone, Quintanilla or Kaiky can play. Each player can offer different things.'