Juanto Ortuño's Ceuta stint over as striker heads to Real Murcia

Blink and you’d have missed him. Juanto Ortuño has officially departed AD Ceuta FC after what can only be described as a forgettable spell at the Segunda División newcomers.

Brief Ceuta career

The striker, who arrived with some fanfare as Ceuta’s first signing following their promotion to Spain’s second tier, has packed his bags after just half a season. Manager José Juan Romero had already let the cat out of the bag last week, but the club made it official on Monday.

The numbers tell a sorry tale for the former Eldense man:

• Just one league start (in a home defeat to Sporting in matchday two)
• Eight substitute appearances in the league
• Zero goals in all competitions
• Two Copa del Rey appearances (also without scoring)

Never in Romero’s plans

Despite being trumpeted as a key addition for Ceuta’s Segunda adventure, Ortuño never seemed to win over his gaffer. The writing was on the wall when Marcos Fernández arrived, pushing him further down the pecking order.

Even when Ghanaian forward Obeng departed, Ortuño couldn’t get a look-in. In a proper kick in the teeth, Romero preferred to convert midfielders like Kuki Zalazar into makeshift strikers rather than turn to the experienced frontman.

What next for player and club?

Ortuño won’t be on the bread and butter for long, with Real Murcia in Primera RFEF (third tier) set to be his next destination. The move represents a step down in divisions but potentially more playing time for the striker who’ll be desperate to find his shooting boots again.

Meanwhile, Ceuta’s striking options have been significantly reduced. The North African club now have just two recognised centre-forwards on their books:

• Marcos Fernández (currently injured)
• Marc Domènech (winter signing from Mallorca)

Romero will be hoping his limited attacking arsenal can keep Ceuta afloat in their maiden Segunda División campaign.