Almeria Football Club: Team Overview

Unión Deportiva Almería, commonly known as UD Almería, was established on July 26, 1989. The football club emerged from the ashes of local predecessor clubs like AD Almería that had suffered financial difficulties. Source.

In its early years, the club struggled in the lower tiers of Spanish football system until it achieved promotion to Segunda División B (third tier) at the end of the 1994-95 season. The following campaign was a memorable one for Los Rojiblancos as they managed to secure a place in playoffs but unfortunately missed out on promotion to second division.

One of notable players during these struggling years was Juan Rojas who later served as president of the club till 2013. His contribution played a significant role in team's growth over time.

Almería's most successful period began when they earned their first-ever promotion to La Liga, Spain's top-flight league, after finishing second in Segunda Division during 2006–07 season source.

The team remarkably ended its debut La Liga season (2007-08) at an impressive eight position under manager Unai Emery - now renowned manager who led teams like Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. That same year, striker Álvaro Negredo scored 13 goals earning him a move to Real Madrid source.

Another iconic moment came when they reached Copa del Rey semi-finals during their inaugural La Liga campaign falling just short against Valencia CF source.

Almeria's main rivalry is with Real Murcia, this clash is known as 'El Derbi del Sureste' (The Southeast Derby). Although there isn’t a consistent history of animosity, the geographical proximity and competitive matches have fuelled this rivalry. Memorable moments include Almería’s 4-3 triumph over Murcia during their successful 2006-07 Segunda División campaign source.

Derby days are significant for fans who passionately engage in supporting their team, adding to the electric atmosphere.

Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos has been UD Almería's home since its opening in 2004. The stadium that hosted Mediterranean Games in same year boasts a capacity of nearly 15,000 spectators source. Known for its modern design with unique blue seats forming a wave pattern across stands represents city's connection with Mediterranean Sea.

Home advantage at Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos has been crucial thanks to passionate crowd support. A memorable moment came when they clinched promotion to La Liga after defeating Tenerife on last matchday of season amidst deafening cheers from home fans.

UD Almería’s fan base consists mainly locals but also spreads across Spain owing to team's exploits in top tier football. Fan group ‘Frente Rojiblanco’ leads organized support during matches creating vibrant atmosphere through chants and tifos.

Traditionally, before each game begins, El Indalo - an ancient symbol used as club crest - is honoured while popular chant "Rojo y blanco" engulfs the stadium, celebrating Almería’s identity and sense of community.

1. Formation of UD Almería on July 26th, 1989.
2. Promotion to Segunda División B for first time in club history at end of 1994-95 season.
3. Ascendance into Segunda Division after successful campaign in year 2001.
4. Winning promotion to La Liga as runners up of Segunda Division during season 2006–07.
5. Debuting in La Liga with an impressive eighth position finish under Unai Emery (2007-08 season).
6. Álvaro Negredo emerging as top scorer during debut La Liga season with 13 goals (2007-08).
7. Epic journey to Copa del Rey semi-finals during inaugural top-flight campaign (2008).
8. Stadium transformation: Opening of Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos also known as Mediterranean Games Stadium (September, 2004).
9. Securing dramatic promotion back to La Liga after defeating Tenerife at a packed home ground on last matchday (2013)
10. Record sale - Transfer of Darwin Nunez to SL Benfica for reported €24m making it biggest sale in club's history source.