> In a month and a half, Almeida will be the undisputed leader of UAE Emirates XRG in the Giro d'Italia, but after a promising start to the season – with podium finishes in the Tour of Valencia and Volta ao Algarve – he is currently going through a difficult phase.

> “I didn't feel that good even before the start of the race. It might be a good idea to have some tests and analyses carried out,” he said to Cycling Pro Net’s camera. “I will have to discuss this with our medical staff.”

> “I don't feel that good on the bike at the moment. Maybe I should take a rest period to figure out what is going on with me,” the 27-year-old Grand Tour rider continued. “To work hard again afterwards.”

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