Ceuta FC Coach Wants to Skip Andorra Opener Amid Migrant Crisis

José Juan Romero, coach of AD Ceuta FC, has called for his team to skip its Primera División opener against FC Andorra this Saturday, citing the severe migrant crisis at Ceuta's border with Morocco.

Ahead of the match at FC Andorra's stadium, Romero used a press conference to highlight the situation following the entry of thousands of people through the Tarajal area. He described a widespread sense of sadness and insecurity in the city, with families keeping children indoors and refusing to go out. "If it were up to me, Ceuta wouldn't play right now," he said, demanding a stronger national response to what he views as a graver issue than perceived elsewhere.

Romero criticised the lack of action from authorities, stating that "nobody is doing anything" and urging a firm intervention to raise awareness. He compared the current events to the large migrant influx in May 2021, insisting this episode warrants greater attention and mobilisation beyond Ceuta.

The crisis has direct repercussions for the club. Players and staff are deeply affected, with Romero noting his own family had delayed their visit due to safety concerns. He also revealed that potential signings have withdrawn amid the unrest. Despite the turmoil, Ceuta will field a team, with Romero pledging to offer fans "a thread of hope" through the performance.

Romero referenced a recent citizen protest on Sunday, warning of more to come without adequate measures. The coach's remarks overshadowed football talk, pushing for the match to spotlight Ceuta's institutional and border challenges.