‘I didn’t deserve it’ – Morocco’s El Yamiq speaks out after controversial red card in Spanish La Liga

Moroccan international Jawad El Yamiq has broken his silence following a controversial sending-off in Real Zaragoza’s match against Cultural Leonesa, an incident that prevented him from taking the field for his team.

Reflecting on the episode, El Yamiq described the dismissal as a “refereeing blunder,” while also acknowledging the need for self-reflection.

“I accompanied the team on their trip to provide moral support. If the referee had reversed the red card, I would have been grateful, but he did not. I was very angry at being deprived of playing, as I did not deserve that expulsion,” he said.

He continued, “My lack of outright objection at that time was not an acceptance of the decision, but rather a desire not to waste time, especially since we were in the final moments of added time and the referee had already made up his mind. It was a refereeing mistake, but I should have been more calm, especially with the experience I have gained on the field.”

The defender is now preparing to return to the squad for Sunday’s crucial match against Andorra national team, a fixture he recognizes as pivotal for Real Zaragoza’s season.

“The atmosphere among us is fantastic, we live as one family. We will work to implement the coach’s instructions precisely, as we bear a historic responsibility to save Real Zaragoza,” he said.

El Yamiq, who has experienced both highs and lows in his early career, emphasizes the team’s priorities over personal accolades.

“Here, I play with my heart and strive to give everything I have for Real Zaragoza. I hope to score more goals, but my top priority is keeping a clean sheet,” he explained.