Gilbert shine out in senior debut amid UD Almeria first-team’s injury blows
The Almeria ‘B’ player is making the most of the first-team opportunities that Rubi gives him as there are numerous absentees
UD Almeria ‘B’ centre-forward Carlos Gilbert shines out amid UD Almeria first-team’s injury blows. The Catalan attacker made his senior debut in LaLiga SmartBank against FC Cartagena last Sunday and he played the full 90 minutes of the Spanish Cup third-round tie last Thursday. He showed that he is a self-confident, skilled player willing to make the most of the great opportunities given by head coach Rubi to make it into the senior squad.
The forward's season is especially noteworthy. Gilbert arrived at Almería ‘B’ during the summer transfer window from the RCD Mallorca ‘B’ and since then, he has been a key regular in the starting XI’s created by Almeria ‘B’ team’s head coach Óscar Fernández, who recommended his signing because he had already seen him play in previous stages. His significance was seen throughout the period prior to the Xmas break, scoring 13 goals allowing the Academy outfit to remain in high positions within the Tercera Division RFEF table (Group IX).
His goal tally inspired the first-team gaffer to give him the golden opportunity to do their bit in the last games played by UD Almería given the numerous absences amid Covid-19 outbreak and injuries. The 22-year-old footballer, who undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him, stood out in the Copa del Rey third-round tie as Rubi not only had named him in the squad list but also handed a starting spot to him when Juan Villar's pre-match warm-up injury prevented him from featuring in the game. The youngster did not waste his time and created big chances against Elche CF.
Carlos Gilbert’s presence in the Rojiblancos’ senior team has not gone unnoticed by the fans and they have filled the social networks with positive comments talking about the 22-year-old player who does not stop growing within UD Almería. The Barcelona-born is pacy, gets on really well with his team-mates and has great scoring ability. He is also a versatile player up front who can play both second striker and on the wings. Gilbert joined UD Almeria ‘B’ from RCD Mallorca ‘B’ and previously wore the shirt of Penya Deportiva after training at the Real Club Deportivo Espanyol youth ranks, when he debuted with its ‘B’ team. This happy chappy has definitely proven himself to be worthy of the step up.