The season has already begun for UD Almería! Although their first league fixture is not until Monday, the UD Almería Stadium hosted a special event on Friday with the official presentation of the 6 summer signings made so far: Jorge Pulido, Andrej Popovic, Quim Junyent, Mikel Vesga, Álex Sola and Brian Cipenga. More than 1,000 supporters turned out to welcome the new arrivals and show their excitement ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

There was a fantastic atmosphere in the stands, with the unveiling of Urci, a fox who will entertain and energise supporters, adding to the excitement surrounding the new faces in the squad. The league season may not officially kick off until Monday, but the new campaign certainly felt underway. club CEO Mohamed El Assy was also present and thoroughly enjoyed the occasion. When he joined the players on stage for a group photo, he took the opportunity to thank the supporters for their continued backing.

The new signings were introduced one by one, answering questions from host Carlos Felipe. Each player spoke of their excitement, motivation and ambition to help the team achieve their objectives. That was the common theme throughout the afternoon, regardless of age or experience, from 19-year-old Quim Junyent to 33-year-old Mikel Vesga and 35-year-old Jorge Pulido. It made no difference whether they had come from a 'B' team or had experience of playing in the Champions League.

After a distinguished football career with Athletic Club, Mikel Vesga is now making the move to Spain’s second tier, but his motivation remains as strong as ever. As he explained: 'The project convinced me; it's exciting and ambitious. The squad is also made up of great players.'

For Quim Junyent, joining UD Almería represents 'a before and after. I'm moving from a 'B' team into real, professional football.'

Jorge Pulido made a significant decision when he committed to the Andalusian Club after 9 years at SD Huesca but as he admitted: 'I'm very happy. I've received a great welcome and I hope to help achieve the objective.' Addressing the supporters directly, he added: 'You guys are incredible,' in recognition of the backing they gave all the protagonists of the afternoon.

Álex Sola was equally clear about his decision: 'I've got team-mates who have told me wonderful things about this city, the fans and the Club… and I was really keen to come here.' The former Real Sociedad and Alavés player knows the division well, having spent last season at Granada CF. 'We know what this league is like, but it's an exciting project and together, we can achieve the objective,' he said.

For 20-year-old Serbian centre-back Andrej Popović, the move represents a major challenge, something he was keen to emphasise. Meanwhile, Brian Cipenga received one of the biggest ovations of the afternoon. He recalled the joy he felt when he scored a spectacular goal against England at the recent FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada, moments he hopes to experience again in a UD Almería jersey.

And then there was Urci, who was certainly enjoying himself. The new mascot headed into the stands to greet the supporters, said hello to the players, playfully interrupted some of them as they spoke and posed for photos with the new signings as well as Club CEO Mohamed El Assy.

The event was drawing to a close, but there was still time for a final celebration: footballs were handed out to supporters, players posed for photographs and signed memorabilia and shirts brought along by the fans.

A fantastic opening act for everything that lies ahead. The 2026/27 season is now ready to begin!