Granada's January boost as Zinebi finally cleared for first-team action
Teenage sensation Rayan Zinebi can now feature for Granada's first team after registration issues delayed his debut despite impressing in training and reserve matches.
Granada’s winter struggles could see a boost from within as talented youngster Rayan Zinebi becomes eligible for first-team selection from January 1st.
Registration issues resolved
While Granada will be scouring the January transfer market for reinforcements, manager Pacheta already has one new option at his disposal. The 18-year-old forward has been training with the first team for months but couldn’t make his debut due to a registration technicality.
Zinebi joined Granada’s reserve side (Recreativo Granada) after the transfer window for professional football had closed, meaning he’s been stuck in limbo despite catching the gaffer’s eye in training sessions. The youngster has been absolutely mustard for the reserves, netting eight goals already this season.
Ready for the step up
Pacheta clearly rates the lad, bringing him straight back into first-team training on Monday as the squad returned from their winter break. With Granada preparing for two crucial fixtures - a derby against Almería on January 3rd and a Copa del Rey tie against Rayo Vallecano - Zinebi’s availability comes at the perfect time.
While club brass know the teenager won’t single-handedly solve all their problems, his attributes offer something different for the Andalusian side:
- Exceptional pace
- Natural goalscoring ability
- Different profile to current attacking options
This opportunity couldn’t come at a better time for Granada, who’ve been short of attacking options since Bouldini’s injury left them in a right two and eight up front.
Zinebi’s promotion from within represents a bright spot for a club that desperately needs reinforcements this January, though fans will be hoping for more experienced additions to follow as they battle in Spain’s Segunda División.