Chimy Ávila’s Future at Betis: Opportunities and Considerations

The name of Chimy Ávila has been circulating within the Sports Management of Real Betis as a potential departure from the club during the winter transfer market. This move is considered to create salary space for new reinforcements for the squad under Manuel Pellegrini’s leadership. Getafe expressed firm interest in acquiring him, but ultimately chose another option due to the costs involved. However, his two goals in the Copa del Rey match against Elche and a strong performance against Villarreal, where he surpassed Bakambu in the rotation, may have altered the Argentine’s situation.

Carlos Bilicich, Chimy’s representative, discussed this matter in an interview with TyC Sports on Monday. He hinted at the possibility of a return to Argentina to play for Boca Juniors, although he believes this would be more pertinent for the upcoming summer transfer market rather than the current window, which closes on February 2. “A call from Juan Román Riquelme could ignite his desire to play for Boca,” he remarked.

“If the president reaches out and expresses interest, it could spark his desire to return. He has a history with Boca and possesses a sense of belonging, making him familiar with the club’s environment. This would be advantageous. Furthermore, he would be a striker who could significantly contribute to their current style of play,” the agent asserted. Nevertheless, he emphasized that he does not recommend Chimy making any immediate changes.

“In my opinion, this is not the right market for him to move. I believe he is regaining his form, feels comfortable, and is well-received by the fans. They recognize his capabilities as a talented attacker who has already proven himself and does not need to prove anything further. Hence, I think he should not change clubs at this stage. Perhaps in June, though,” he stated. In the coming days, he plans to meet with the player to assess options from Racing and Rosario Central: “Currently, a return to Argentina is a possibility, but Chimy is very comfortable at Betis and has a contract.”

The forward is tied to the green-and-white club until June 30, 2027. Although recent developments, such as Cucho’s injury and Chimy’s rising status in Pellegrini’s preferences, have shifted the dynamics, nothing is definitive as the transfer window remains open: “Until the end of the transfer window, anything can happen. However, if he needs to leave Betis, he will aim to do so in the best way possible, respecting the club and its supporters, who have treated him very well.”