The province of Almería is preparing for a potential historic celebration: its football team's fifth promotion to the top tier. Tradition dictates that the most memorable celebrations occur at home, in front of the fans, a scenario they aim to repeat after the exception of 2022.
From the Agrupación Deportiva of 1979 to the current Unión Deportiva, the path to the elite has been marked by key moments. Figures like Unai Emery, Javi Gracia, and Rubi have led significant promotions, each with their own distinct style. The current coach, Rubi, has the opportunity to make history by repeating a promotion and consolidating an ambitious project.
The first major leap occurred in the 1978-79 season at the former Juan Rojas stadium, laying the foundation for a combative identity. In 2007, under Emery, the promotion marked a competitive and structural advancement, establishing the club as a serious project. In 2013, Javi Gracia led a hard-fought promotion celebrated at home, strengthening the bond with the fans.
The exception to the rule was the 2022 promotion, achieved remotely and celebrated without the collective communion in the stadium. Now, the team is once again looking towards the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos, the venue for modern celebrations, with the goal of recapturing that essence and experiencing a 'social event' that transcends sport.
