Manuel Pellegrini Discusses Team Preparations and Transfer Market Insights

Manuel Pellegrini, head coach of Real Betis, held a press conference today at the Ciudad Deportiva Luis del Sol to discuss his team’s preparations for the upcoming match against Valencia, part of the 22nd round of LaLiga EA Sports. This match marks the second in a series of three consecutive home games across different competitions. During the session, Pellegrini also took the opportunity to address matters concerning the transfer market.

Regarding the second home game of the week, Pellegrini emphasized, “We previously discussed this trilogy across three competitions. We successfully navigated the first challenge, and we are currently positioned within the top eight in the Europa League. Now, we must focus on securing three crucial points in LaLiga, which are essential. Advancing to the semifinals in the Cup would be a significant achievement, but it’s important not to lose sight of our league position as we also aim for European qualification through LaLiga. After the match against Valencia, our focus will shift to Thursday’s game; the team is in good spirits.”

On the absence of player Pablo Fornals from training, Pellegrini stated, “He has been named for the match. Recovery times vary; some players recover quickly while others take longer, especially following Thursday matches.”

Addressing the overall situation of his team, Pellegrini remarked, “I am not overly concerned with media narratives. Regardless of our upcoming match against Feyenoord, we have already qualified for the next round, which is an achievement in itself. Ideally, we would have preferred to secure a spot in the top eight, but if that didn’t happen, it would simply have been another round, similar to last year’s Conference League. We remain competitive in both the Cup and LaLiga, sitting just two points away from fifth place, with 51 points still available. Our internal ambition is always high; we are not complacent, yet I strive to maintain a realistic perspective, especially following losses, as every team experiences defeats. Results do not always align with team performances, which can lead to media speculation that takes on a life of its own.”

On the development of player Deossa, Pellegrini noted, “Unfortunately, he started quite behind due to a long injury and adapting from Mexican football to European standards is challenging. We are gradually giving him minutes; he has significant potential but still has much to improve.”

Discussing Abde’s performance, Pellegrini commented, “Last season, he had the most opportunities but struggled with conversion rates. He has recognized areas for improvement. Currently, he is our leading goalscorer in the Europa League, and at a young age, he still has much to learn, particularly in decision-making and execution in the final third. I am very pleased for him and the team.”

Regarding Bakambu’s future, Pellegrini stated, “I have addressed this previously; while players are here, they are available for selection. He will play, having faced criticism for missed opportunities, which is something many players encounter. The transfer market is not something I focus on much these days; it’s an area I have explained before. He is part of the squad and is named for tomorrow’s match.”

On the team’s needs, Pellegrini remarked, “There is much discussion about the need for a striker, but internally we have different views. We must evaluate our options; we have players like Chimy, Bakambu, Cucho, and Aitor. There are various alternatives, and other positions may be more affected due to injuries. I prefer not to delve too deeply into this matter, as it encompasses many aspects, including our needs, potential signings, costs, and budgetary considerations. These are internal discussions.”