Goalkeeper Áron Yaakobishvili and centre-back Andrej Popović made their UD Almería debuts in the Copa del Rey first-round tie against UD Castellonense. The goalkeeper, who joined on loan from FC Barcelona, had yet to make his first appearance as keeper Andrés Fernández has been the undisputed first choice in the league. Yaakobishvili, over whom the Rojiblancos hold an option to buy, produced an outstanding performance, making several crucial saves at key moments in the match.

 

Andrej Popović, a UD Almería 'B' youngsters, was given his opportunity in the Cup competition due to the injuries and absences in Xavier García Pimienta's squad, as well as the need to prepare for Saturday's demanding trip to visit rivals SD Eibar on Matchday 12. The 20-year-old Serbian, who stands at 1.93 metres tall, looked assured defensively and impressed in the air. He has been training along with the first team in recent weeks.

 

Alongside these debuts, Gui Guedes' return was another major highlight. The Portuguese midfielder played again after 2 months and 10 days on the treatment table, having recovered from a meniscus injury that required surgery in August. He sustained the injury against CD Eldense on the opening Matchday at the UD Almería Stadium.

 

Head coach Xavier García Pimienta fielded several players who have seen less action in the league, including Álex Sola, Thalys and Jon Morcillo. However, with the gaffer regularly making a number of changes to his starting line-up in league fixtures, playing time has generally been shared fairly evenly across the squad.