Border Crisis Forces 15 Players to Withdraw from Transfers to AD Ceuta
AD Ceuta president Luhay Hamido confirmed that 15 potential signings pulled out of agreed deals due to fears sparked by the escalating border crisis in the North African enclave. These withdrawals happened just before the transfer window closed, disrupting the club's plans for strengthening the squad.
Migrant Influx Hits Recruitment Plans
The Spanish club, based in Ceuta, has been hit hard after an unprecedented surge of migrants crossing from Morocco. Since late July, about 80,000 migrants have entered the city either along the coastline or swimming around the Tarajal and Benzu breakwaters. This influx overwhelmed local facilities and led Ceuta’s government to call on Spanish authorities to declare a national emergency.
President Describes a City Under Siege
Speaking to Cadena SER, Hamido explained that many players backed out despite negotiations being almost complete. He said the main reason was safety worries expressed by the players’ families: "Their wives are scared, the children... It's understandable given the information they receive. If you’re not there, it feels like a state of siege." He noted how quickly the situation shifted from a thriving environment for tourism, economy, and sports to one dominated by this crisis.
Hamido also emphasized the unique cultural makeup of Ceuta, where four cultures coexist peacefully, making the club a powerful symbol of unity and refuge.
Protecting Current Squad Amid Uncertainty
The president reassured that the current players and coaching staff operate in a safe environment. "They have families and children and realize the city isn’t what they expected, which affects them, but training continues normally. It is safe, and the police are doing a great job," he stated.
To convince new recruits, the club offered visits without any pressure. Despite the difficulties, some signings were finalized on the last day of the transfer window. Hamido remains confident: "I believe we will compete with this squad. We don’t get nervous or focus only on immediate results. We try to shield the players and keep them in a bubble."
Upcoming Challenge Against Celta Fortuna
AD Ceuta currently sits at the bottom of the Segunda Division standings, having lost their first three games without scoring any points. Manager Jose Juan Romero faces a crucial home match against Celta Fortuna on September 5. This fixture could be key for integrating new players and finally securing the team’s first points this season.
- Match: AD Ceuta vs Celta Fortuna
- Date: 5 September 2026
- Time: 18:30
- Competition: Segunda Division
