It has been a long journey! Fernando Martínez joined UD Almería back in 2017 and the trajectory of the Rojiblanco goalkeeper's career has continued on an upward path since then. He has highly valued on UDA Radio his recent contract renewal: 'I'm very happy to be able to continue here for two more years. This is my sixth season and with this contract extension it'd be eight years in total; I hope to be here for many more. I feel great at the Club and in the city. I believe that you must stay wherever you feel comfortable,' he commented on the Club's official station. 

Moreover, Fernando stated 'I feel greatly valued by the Club and the city, something that's essential for me. I've put down roots here, I'm close to my hometown and it hasn't been a difficult decision to make, far from it.' 

When looking back, the UD Almería captain has admitted: 'At no time in the past did I expect I'd be in the same Club for so long. It's something atypical. The players rotate a lot and I never expected this after moving down a tier with UCAM Murcia. Who would've thought that I was going to be here for so many seasons and on top of that, getting promotion to the top flight?....Not even in my wildest dreams did I imagine it and it's meant a profound change at a personal and professional level. 

Former UD Almería head coach José María Gutiérrez 'Guti' recently wrote a tweet on social media praising Fernando's footballing career, so the sharp shot-stopper thanked him publicly: 'I really appreciate Guti's tweet because he was the one who gave me the opportunity with his decision to give me regular starts. I can't thank him enough.' 

Professional success has come late for the Murcia native and for this reason, perhaps, it feels better: 'I've always dreamed of playing in the Primera Division. I thought it was practically impossible. It was more of a dream than a reality. Now that I'm here, I'm making the most of it and I truly hope it lasts a long time. The chance came my way late and it's taken me a long time of hard work.' 

This Monday, the 32-year-old keeper will live an interesting experience as he has recognised: 'Actually, I've never played at the Mestalla Stadium despite my stint at Valencia CF U19. I've attended many games, but this will be the first time I'll be between the sticks there and that's really exciting.'