Moroccan footballer Mohamed Zeitouni swims to Ceuta amid club payment dispute

Moroccan defender Mohamed Zeitouni has reached the Spanish enclave of Ceuta after swimming across the sea according to reports.

The 19-year-old, formerly of Moghreb Tetouan, endured nearly half an hour in rough waters before reaching the shore, according to El Faro de Ceuta.

Prior to his swim, Zeitouni reportedly walked several kilometres along the Moroccan coastline in an effort to avoid detection.

Zeitouni is currently staying at Ceuta’s Temporary Stay Centre for Immigrants (CETI), where he has been living for about a week.

Reports suggest the young player’s move was prompted by unpaid wages from his former club, a situation that led him to follow a route previously taken by friends.

Since his arrival, Zeitouni has maintained regular contact with his family and is reportedly hopeful for an opportunity to resume his football career in Spain.