El Yamiq returns to Zaragoza as fifth winter signing in relegation battle
The Moroccan defender rejoins Real Zaragoza four years after his loan spell, becoming the club's fifth January acquisition as they fight to avoid the drop.
Real Zaragoza have turned to a familiar face in their fight against relegation, bringing back Moroccan defender Jawad El Yamiq as their fifth signing of the January window.
Back for a second stint
Zaragoza have pulled a proper rabbit out of the hat with this one, as the 33-year-old centre-back returns to La Romareda four years after his initial spell at the club. El Yamiq previously donned the white shirt in 2020 when he arrived on loan for half a season, making 14 appearances and impressing enough to earn a move to Real Valladolid afterwards.
The veteran defender has since had a bit of an adventure, spending time in Saudi Arabia with both Al-Wehda and Al-Najma. He’s also been on international duty with Morocco, featuring in their recent Africa Cup of Nations campaign where the Atlas Lions reached the final before losing to Senegal.
Different circumstances
The contrast between his two Zaragoza stints couldn’t be more stark:
- In 2020: Joined to help push for promotion
- In 2024: Returns to help avoid what the club considers would be a “catastrophic relegation”
January revolution continues
El Yamiq becomes the fifth winter reinforcement for the struggling Segunda División side, joining:
- Rober González
- Willy Agada
- Nikola Cumic
- Juan Larios
And Zaragoza might not be done yet. Reports suggest there could be more movement in both directions before the January transfer window slams shut.
The Aragonese club are clearly going for broke to secure their Segunda División status. Let’s see if these winter additions can do the business and keep them from taking a right old trip down to the third tier.