Zaragoza homecoming: Clemente returns to La Romareda as Las Palmas' unlikely goal hero
Former Real Zaragoza defender Enrique Clemente has reinvented himself as Las Palmas' second-highest goalscorer ahead of emotional return to his hometown club.
Former Zaragoza man Enrique Clemente has transformed from defensive utility player to goal-scoring sensation for Las Palmas, becoming their second-highest scorer this season ahead of an emotional return to La Romareda.
From defender to goal machine
Who’d have thought it? A defender leading the scoring charts is about as rare as a decent pint in Barcelona, but Clemente’s found his shooting boots this season. The Zaragoza-born defender has notched an impressive 4 goals already, making him Las Palmas’ second-highest goalscorer.
It’s proper caught everyone on the hop - teammates and opponents alike. For a lad who’s primarily a defender, he’s showing the kind of instinct in front of goal that’d make some strikers green with envy.
But it’s not just about the goals. The versatile defender has also chipped in with an assist, making him a genuine threat from deep positions when he bombs forward.
Finding his feet at left-back
Clemente’s versatility has been his bread and butter this season. Though naturally a centre-half, he’s made the left-back position his own in the Las Palmas setup.
His ability to play across the backline has given him a regular starting berth, providing defensive solidity while also offering that unexpected attacking dimension. What started as a tactical choice has evolved into a strategic necessity - the gaffer can’t leave him out these days.
Emotional homecoming
This weekend presents a right special occasion for Clemente as Las Palmas travel to Zaragoza - a proper homecoming for the defender who spent last season on loan at the Aragonese club.
Returning to your old stomping ground is always a bit tasty, especially when you’re in the form of your life. All eyes will be on Clemente as he steps onto the La Romareda pitch, this time wearing the yellow of Las Palmas rather than the blue and white stripes.
The Christmas period is all about going home, and Clemente’s festive return to Zaragoza couldn’t have been scripted better. If his scoring form continues, don’t be surprised if he delivers an unwanted Christmas present to his former employers.