Back to work with Granada CF in sight

UD Almería returned to training after a 2-day break, kicking things off with a high-tempo training session at the Anexo base. The work-out marks the start of preparations for a crucial week, which will end on Sunday with a key clash against Granada CF at the Nuevo Los Cármenes stadium, another vital fixture for the Rojiblancos’ promotion ambitions.

With the table so tight, the margin for error is minimal. Matchday 37 also features 2 games between direct rivals Burgos CF vs Deportivo de La Coruña and Málaga CF vs CD Castellón, both scheduled for Saturday. A win in Granada would represent a major step forward, building on last weekend’s success and keeping the Rojiblancos firmly in the race for automatic promotion.

Standing in their way will be a Granada CF side sitting comfortably in mid-table, 10 points clear of the drop zone. However, they come into the game off the back of a heavy defeat in Albacete and will be eager to bounce back in front of their home fans as they look to secure their status.

UD Almería are fully aware of the challenge ahead, but also of what is at stake. After 7 consecutive home wins, the team now aims to improve their away form, having lost their last two outings in Santander and Castellón, as well as a previous defeat in Zaragoza.

Head coach Rubi welcomes back Lopy following suspension but will be without Chirino, who serves a 2-match ban after his red card against Málaga CF. Nico Melamed, absent last Sunday, trained on the grass individually, while Baba and Rodrigo Ely both followed alternative training programmes.

From Thursday onwards, sessions will be held behind closed doors. The squad will travel by road to Granada on Saturday afternoon.