Almería

Deep in southern Spain, where the Mediterranean Sea embraces the city, we find a football club that epitomizes the heart and soul of Andalusia – UD Almería. This club, woven into the fabric of Almería city, is a testament to the resilience and unending passion for football.

Almería’s history is a chronicle of unwavering dedication to the beautiful game. Founded in 1989, the club embarked on a steep climb to the top. After an 18-year ascent, they reached the summit of Spanish football, LaLiga, in 2007. Ever since, Almería has been a consistent figure in the upper tiers of Spanish football, proudly showcasing their red and white stripes on the biggest stages.

The pages of Almería’s history boast of many talented players who’ve graced their ranks. One of the notable figures is Álvaro Negredo, who honed his skills in Almería before heading to Sevilla, and later Manchester City and Valencia, leaving a trail of goals in his wake. Another stand-out is goalkeeper Diego Alves, who made his name denying penalties at Almería before a successful stint at Valencia. José Ortiz, a proud product of Almería’s youth system, is another one to watch, with a promising career ahead of him.

Football would be dull without rivalries, and Almería has a few of its own. Local Andalusian derbies with Granada and Málaga always ignite the passions of fans. Outside of LaLiga, their encounters with Sporting Gijón in the Segunda Division have become quite heated. These rivalries, filled with an intense competitive spirit, bring an extra spark to Almería’s games, making them memorable events.

The heart of Almería beats at the Municipal Stadium of the Mediterranean Games. The stadium, with a capacity of 15,000, offers a vibrant atmosphere on match days. The best views are from the Preferencia and Tribuna sections, priced at around 70 Euros. These spots offer a panoramic view of the entire pitch, providing spectators with an immersive experience. For those on a budget, the Fondo seats are more affordable, costing around 35 Euros, but still deliver a good view and atmosphere. And for the passionate supporters who prefer to stand and cheer, the Gol stands are the most economical, priced at around 25 Euros.

Each area within the stadium has its charm, and regardless of where you’re seated, you’re sure to feel the contagious energy and passion that Almería’s faithful bring to every match. Indeed, one of the most remarkable things about Almería is the loyalty and fervor of its supporters, who have stuck by the team through thick and thin, contributing to the club’s resilience and fighting spirit.

UD Almería, with its rich history, talented alumni, intense rivalries, and thrilling home ground, provides a distinct Spanish football experience. The club illustrates that football is not solely about top-tier glamour, but about a community’s shared love and passion for the sport. So, for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Andalusian football, Almería offers an unforgettable journey. This is a club where every matchday is a celebration, every player a warrior, and every fan an integral part of their story. So come join the red and white brigade, and experience the warmth of Andalusian football at its finest.

They Thrive with Fans

Fastest Ascent to LaLiga: Almería holds the record for being the fastest club to reach LaLiga after its formation. The club, established in 1989, climbed to the top tier of Spanish football in 2007, a mere 18 years after its inception.

LaLiga Debut: In their first season in LaLiga (2007-2008), Almería performed remarkably well, finishing 8th in the league. This is an achievement that underlines the club’s competitive nature.

Saudi Ownership: Since 2019, Almería has been owned by Turki Al-Sheikh, a Saudi Arabian businessman and advisor to the Saudi Royal Court. This ownership has injected fresh investments into the club, aiming for a swift return to LaLiga.

Copa del Rey History: Almería has had an impressive run in the Copa del Rey. In the 2010-11 season, they reached the semi-finals, one of their best performances in the competition.

Stadium Legacy: The Municipal Stadium of the Mediterranean Games is not just a football stadium. It was constructed for the 2005 Mediterranean Games and has been the home of Almería since then.

Coaching Carousel: Almería is known for its frequent changes in the coaching staff. Despite this seeming instability, the club has maintained a high competitive level.

Talent Export: Almería has been a stepping stone for many players to larger clubs, such as Wellington Silva who later played for Arsenal, and Pablo Piatti who moved to Espanyol and later played in the MLS.