UD Almería aims to boost international profile with Desert Cup commitment
Managing Director Mohamed El Assy discusses Club's goals for growth and development
UD Almería Managing Director, Mohamed El Assy, expressed the Club's ambitions to raise its international profile through its involvement in the Desert Cup, a prestigious youth football tournament set to take place in Roquetas de Mar from 5-8 December.
Speaking at the tournament's presentation, Mr El Assy outlined the Club's long-term vision: 'We want to expand the Club's and the province's profile internationally.' He emphasised that participating in such events aligns with the Club’s broader strategy to promote not only UD Almería but also the province of Almería as a prime tourist destination.
In addition to global exposure, the UD Almería CEO highlighted the role of the Desert Cup in supporting the development of the Club's Youth Academy. 'The development of our Youth Academy, which can compete with the best at the Spanish, European and world levels is another key reason,' he said.
The tournament will see leading clubs from both Spain and abroad competing. Among the Spanish teams taking part are Real Madrid CF, Atlético de Madrid, Sevilla FC, Betis Balompié, Valencia CF, Villarreal CF, Granada CF, Málaga CF, Real Murcia and AD Osasuna. Internationally, the event will feature high-profile teams like Paris Saint-Germain, SL Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, and Arsenal FC. Hosts UD Almería and the Roquetas de Mar Football School will also be competing.
The competition will feature nearly 1,000 players aged 8-14, both boys and girls, with matches taking place across two venues: the Antonio Peroles stadium and the Las Salinas sports complex. In total, approximately 130 matches are scheduled during the event.
The Desert Cup kicks off on Friday, 5 December, with a special match between the Genuine teams of UD Almería and Elche CF. The main competition will be held on 6-7 December, with the finals scheduled for 8 December.
Strong Local Support and Future Collaborations
Mohamed El Assy also expressed his profound gratitude for the unwavering support of the Roquetas de Mar City Council, with Councilor for Sports José Juan Rubí praising the collaboration between UD Almería and the city: 'For us, it's an honour to host this tournament and to be able to collaborate with UD Almería, who are always doing so much for the Club and for the province,' Mr Rubí said, adding that Mayor Gabriel Amat was unable to attend the event due to unforeseen circumstances.
The event is organised by the UD Almería Foundation and Roquetas de Mar City Council, with the backing of Cajamar Bank and Diputación de Almería. Deputy María del Mar López Asensio, representing the Provincial Council, also expressed her strong support: 'Thanks to the Desert Cup, Roquetas de Mar and the province will be at the centre of grassroots football at an international level. The Provincial Council must continue to collaborate in an event of this magnitude,' she said.
Reflecting on last year’s success, López Asensio expressed confidence that this year’s tournament would surpass expectations. 'Last year the Desert Cup was a resounding success and I'm convinced that this time the same will happen or even be surpassed,' she concluded.