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The Spain-born Kenyan international defender has joined Spanish side Zamora CF on a one-year deal after leaving Mérida in June.
Harambee Stars defender Ismael Athuman Gonzalez has secured the next chapter of his footballing journey after completing a move to Spanish third-tier side Zamora CF on a one-year deal.
The 30-year-old, who was born in Spain but represents Kenya internationally, joins Zamora on a free transfer following his recent departure from AD Mérida, whom he helped reach the Second Division promotion play-offs in the 2024-25 season.
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The experienced defender was unveiled by Zamora through an official statement shared on their X (formerly Twitter) account, marking yet another significant milestone in his career.
“Zamora CF announces the signing of centre back Ismael Said Athuman González from AD Mérida, where he played in the Second Division promotion play-offs this past 2024-25 season,” reads part of the statement.
Ismail Gonzalez: Seventh Club in Five Years
Athuman’s move to Zamora represents his seventh club in just five years, underscoring his status as one of the most well-traveled Kenyan footballers currently active in Europe.
The Kenyan international's brief but eventful spell at Mérida saw him feature in 17 matches since arriving in January 2025, earning praise for his defensive discipline and versatility.
“Athuman brings experience and solidity to the centre of the red-and-white defense for the 2025-26 season,” the statement continued.
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Prior to signing for Mérida, Athuman had been without a club since leaving Águilas in July 2024.
The period of inactivity resulted in a sharp decline in his market value, dropping from €100,000 (approximately Ksh15.2 million) to €50,000 (approximately Ksh7.63 million).
However, his performances over the past six months have reignited interest in his services and convinced Zamora’s technical team to offer him a fresh opportunity.
The defender, who has also operated as a right back and defensive midfielder, has accumulated over 1,800 minutes in Spain’s competitive First Division of the RFEF across stints with Mérida and Sabadell.
Developed at Las Palmas
Athuman’s career began in the youth ranks of UD Las Palmas, where he honed his craft before earning a senior debut during the 2020/21 season in Spain’s Segunda División. He would go on to feature six times for the Las Palmas first team, gaining vital experience that laid the foundation for his professional path.
A standout moment came in the 2021/22 campaign, when he played an instrumental role in Real Murcia’s promotion to the First Division of the RFEF. Alongside Las Palmas, Mérida, and Murcia, the Kenyan has turned out for several clubs including Fuenlabrada, Granada B, Cacereño, Sabadell, and Águilas.
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Reflecting on his journey, Athuman has remained determined to make the most of every opportunity. His move to Zamora now offers a chance to re-establish himself as a consistent performer and attract the attention of Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
The club is optimistic that his presence will bolster their defensive options in what promises to be a demanding campaign.
“Athuman brings experience and solidity to the centre of the red-and-white defense for the 2025-26 season,” Zamora’s statement concluded.
Kenyan fans will remember Athuman’s contribution to the national team during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, which marked Kenya’s last appearance at the continental showpiece.
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