What happened with Arnau Puigmal and UD Almería?

UD Almería confirmed that Arnau Puigmal, the Catalan player who wore the red‑white shirt for five seasons, will leave the club to join RCD Mallorca. The announcement, made on July 7 2026, ends a spell of 100 official matches and 14 goals, leaving a gap in both the dressing room and the stands.

How did Puigmal impact the team during his stay?

Since arriving in 2021, Puigmal started as a central midfielder, but under manager Joan Francesc Ferrer ‘Rubi’, he was reshaped into a right winger and, at times, a right‑back. His versatility made him a revulsivo in the second half of games, consistently earning a performance rating of “7‑8”. In the 2025‑26 campaign, despite promotion pressure, he delivered quality minutes on the flank, contributing defensively and in attack.

Why did the “no promotion” shape his departure?

On June 20 2026, UD Almería lost the final match that offered a place in La Liga. That “no promotion” was decisive for Puigmal, who had expressed a desire to stay if the club moved up. The disappointment made it clear his future lay elsewhere, and Mallorca emerged as the most appealing option.

What does his exit mean for UD Almería?

The club loses a player who, according to Carlos Miralles, Cadena SER Almería reporter, will be welcomed with a “thunderous ovation” should he ever return to the red‑white shirt. His departure forces the management to find replacements for the right wing and full‑back positions, while fans contemplate the loss of a key figure who blended talent with commitment.

What lies ahead at RCD Mallorca?

Puigmal will start a new chapter at RCD Mallorca, where the Catalan coach plans to harness his Segunda División experience. The player has said he is “happy” with the new challenge, yet admits that “the heart will always have a corner for Almería”. His signing strengthens Mallorca’s squad for the upcoming season.