Border Crisis Forces 15 Players to Withdraw from Transfers to AD Ceuta
AD Ceuta faced a major setback as 15 players pulled out of transfer agreements due to fears linked to the ongoing border crisis in the North African enclave. Club president Luhay Hamido confirmed these withdrawals, explaining that safety concerns for families led to the cancellations despite deals being nearly finalized.
Migrant Influx Disrupts Recruitment
The Spanish club's efforts to strengthen their squad were interrupted by a sudden surge of migrants crossing into Ceuta from Morocco. Reports indicate around 80,000 migrants have entered the area since late July, either swimming near breakwaters or crossing along the shoreline. This influx overwhelmed local facilities, prompting authorities to consider declaring a national emergency.
President Comments on Transfer Fallout
In an interview with Cadena SER, Hamido described how family worries drove players away: "Their wives are scared, the children... It’s understandable given what they hear. If you’re not living it, it feels like a state of siege." He noted how quickly conditions changed within a month; earlier, tourism, economy, and sports were thriving. He added, "Ceuta is more than just a club: four cultures coexist here and we all embrace one another; it has become a sanctuary and the team is a strong symbol of unity."
Protecting Current Squad Amid Unrest
The president assured that current players and staff remain safe while working: "They see the city isn’t what they expected, and that affects them, but training goes on normally. The police are doing a great job." The club even invited potential signings to visit without pressure to decide, allowing them to evaluate facilities and the environment. Despite difficulties, some signings were completed late in the window. "We believe this squad can compete. We aren’t obsessed with immediate results and try to keep players protected," Hamido said.
Upcoming Match Tests New Team
AD Ceuta sits at the bottom of the Segunda Division table after three straight losses without points. Manager Jose Juan Romero and his side will face Celta Fortuna on September 5 in a key home match. This game offers a chance to integrate new players and aim for the first points of the season.
- Match: AD Ceuta vs Celta Fortuna
- Date: September 5, 2026
- Time: 18:30
- Location: Ceuta
