UD Melilla bring Spanish-Moroccan forward Zaki back to the club on a free transfer

Spanish-Moroccan centre-forward Zaki has joined UD Melilla from R. B. Linense on a free transfer, returning to the club where he previously played at under-19 level.

The 24-year-old, who was born in Melilla, has signed with the Spanish side after one season at R. B. Linense. He becomes part of UD Melilla’s senior squad and will provide an option in the centre-forward position.

Zaki made nine appearances in Primera Federacion, scoring once, and also featured in the promotion play-offs and the Copa del Rey. His league goal came across 151 minutes of action, while he played a further 83 minutes in the promotion competition and 13 minutes in the cup.

The move continues a sequence of free transfers through the forward’s recent career. Before joining R. B. Linense, Zaki spent the 2024-25 season with Cordoba CF B after leaving Linares. He had joined Linares from Real Jaen CF in 2023, having earlier moved into senior football with CD Intergym.

Zaki began his youth career with Melilla U19 before switching to Elche U19 in 2020. He later spent time with UCAM Murcia U19 before making the move to CD Intergym, marking his progression from youth football into the Spanish senior game.

His return gives UD Melilla a player with experience across several levels of Spanish football and a direct connection to the club. Zaki’s previous spell in the Melilla setup came before his senior career developed through clubs including Real Jaen CF, Linares, Cordoba CF B and R. B. Linense.

The transfer was completed on 4 August 2026, with Zaki’s new contract at UD Melilla running until 30 June 2027.