Betis Faces Contract Changes as Winter Transfer Window Opens

As of January 1, 2026, all players whose contracts with their respective clubs expire on June 30 are now free to negotiate with other teams for the upcoming season. At Real Betis, this situation pertains to three players in varying circumstances, as well as a fourth case concerning the only player currently on loan, who is expected to return to his parent club at the end of the current season.

Ricardo Rodríguez and Cédric Bakambu have relatively defined futures. They are aware that they are entering the final six months of their tenure with Pellegrini’s squad and will not receive renewal offers. It is likely that the Swiss defender will see out his contract and bid farewell to the Andalusian club, joining the ranks of players who have participated in a World Cup while under the colors of the Betis. For the Congolese striker, a similar scenario could unfold, although there are possibilities that he might leave the club during the ongoing winter transfer window, depending on the offers received.

At the ages of 33 and 34, respectively, both Ricardo and Cédric are in the twilight of their careers, and Betis is keen to take advantage of their contract expirations to fill their positions with younger, more promising talents. This potential shift may also occur in the goalkeeping department with Adrián San Miguel, whose contract is also set to expire on June 30. However, discussions regarding his future are still pending due to his significance in the locker room and the stability that Pellegrini appears to have found with the current goalkeeper setup.

In addition to the three players whose contracts are expiring, Betis faces another matter that requires resolution in the coming months. Sofyan Amrabat is the only player currently on loan this season, and the agreement with Fenerbahçe, his parent club, did not include a purchase option. The Moroccan midfielder is participating in the Africa Cup of Nations with his national team but has been a key starter for Pellegrini whenever available. Therefore, it would not be surprising if the sporting management, led by Manu Fajardo, aims to reach an agreement with the Turkish club to secure Amrabat on a permanent basis before June.

With two clear cases concerning expiring contracts and Amrabat’s future still to be determined, Betis finds itself at a pivotal moment as the winter transfer window opens. The possible departure of Chimy Ávila or an early exit for Bakambu could pave the way for the acquisition of a new forward, thereby preempting a move that would otherwise occur next summer once positions within the squad become available.