Rubi and Fernando clinch silverware at 2021/22 'MARCA' Awards
The UD Almería first-team gaffer received the trophy for the best second-tier head coach last season and Fernando Martinez's goalkeeping won him the second-tier Golden Glove in Spain
UD Almería first-team head coach Rubi and co-captain and goalkeeper Fernando Martinez shone out at the 'MARCA' 2021/22 Awards that has been organised by the prestigious Spanish sport newspaper at the Goya Theatre in Madrid.
The Rojiblancos' gaffer picked up the trophy for the best second-tier head coach of the previous 2021/22 campaign and the UD Almería co-captain and goalkeeper collected his second-tier Golden Glove award as the Murcia-born was the goalie who conceded the fewest goals in the LaLiga SmartBank over the course of the last campaign, both taking a leading role together with the rest of the squad towards the long-awaited promotion to the top-flight Primera Division, where they are currently competing.
The annual event took place at midday this Wednesday with the presence of sports authorities, such as the President of the Spanish Olympic Committee, Alejandro Blanco, and a large representation of Spanish football. In fact, Benzema, Álvaro Morata, Manuel Pellegrini, Iago Aspas, Stuani…were among the winners.
Rubi and Fernando thanked Spanish newspaper MARCA sincerely for the football awards received and stated that they felt particularly proud of what they represent. In fact, the award for the best head coach features the name of Miguel Muñoz Trophy and the one for the best goalkeeper, Zamora Trophy, in memory of the legendary head coach and goalkeeper. Plus they have a great public recognition and can be considered as the top awards of Spanish football.
Rubi, who has been given this award for the second time during his career, highlighted that the success of his work in inspiring his side to promotion to the top tier was a 'result of hard work,' while keeper Fernando congratulated himself on having contributed to move up to the Primera Division, arguing 'the fewer goals you concede, the closer you're to getting the objectives.'
Both of them made it clear that these major awards also earn the UD Almería coaching staff and first-team squad recognition for their work and positive attitude throughout the past season.