UD Almería return to training with new signings and familiar faces
New recruit Thalys joins squad as Baba completes recovery. Head coach Rubi absent due to head coaches' summit in Madrid
UD Almería resumed training on Tuesday at the Anexo ground following a rest day, kicking off a crucial week of preparation that culminates in Sunday’s clash against current LaLiga Hypermotion tabletoppers, Real Racing Club de Santander.
The session was marked by several new developments following the closure of the summer transfer window. New signing Thalys took part in their first training sessions with the team. Brazilian forward Thalys, who has signed a long-term deal until June 2031, joined his new team-mates on the pitch.
Notably absent from the session were the 3 internationals: Soko (Cameroon), Dzodic (Serbia U21), and Perovic (Montenegro U21), all of whom are on duty with their national teams. Head coach Rubi was also missing, having travelled to Madrid to take part in the annual meeting of Primera and Segunda división head coaches, a routine gathering to open the season.
There was good news on the injury front as Baba, who made the squad for the match at Anoeta 9 months after a serious injury, is now fully integrated into group training.
Elsewhere, Nelson Monte and Bruno Iribarne continued their individual recovery plans, working separately from the main group. Monte was seen doing ball work on the grass, a positive step in his return.
With 5 practices still ahead, including a double session scheduled for Wednesday, assistant coach Jaume Torras led the squad through a demanding training routine, focused on preparing the team for a high-stakes encounter this weekend.