Real Betis Nears Contract Extension with Isco Ahead of Sevilla Derby

According to a report from Spanish publication ABC, Real Betis is nearing a lucrative contract extension with their iconic midfielder, Isco. His current deal with the Andalusian club is set to expire on June 30, 2027. It is anticipated that both parties will announce the renewal before next weekend’s highly anticipated Andalusian derby against fierce rivals Sevilla. Betis president Angel Haro is personally overseeing the negotiations and is eager to secure Isco’s commitment beyond the duration of his existing contract, with only the expiry date of the new agreement left to finalize.

Isco has expressed great satisfaction with his position at Betis and does not envision leaving the club anytime soon. During a recent press conference for his documentary “In Silence,” he stated, “I don’t want to retire without winning a title with Betis. The renewal is still up in the air, but it will be straightforward. Both Betis and I wish to extend our journey together, hopefully for many more years. I want to play in the new stadium. I hope they reach an agreement soon regarding its construction; otherwise, I won’t have time to arrive. Playing in the new stadium would be a significant and wonderful challenge.”

The initial plan was to extend Isco’s contract until 2028, which would also include a pay rise recognizing his performances and influence in the 2024-25 season. This new agreement would position him as the highest-paid player at the club, alongside Antony, who earns €7.8 million gross per season, including bonuses, after being signed permanently from Manchester United.

Isco, however, has shown a willingness to remain at Betis beyond 2028. Options being considered include extending the contract to either 2028 or 2029 on a fixed or optional basis, or even structuring a deal that would allow him to stay at Betis for the duration of his career, contingent on his performances.

Despite turning 33 earlier this year, there are reportedly no concerns regarding his contract renewal. Betis is extremely pleased with his on-field performances and his determination to overcome physical challenges, which have surpassed the club’s expectations. His status as a club icon, particularly as the team captain, further strengthens his case for renewal. Currently, the most favored proposal is to extend his contract through 2028, with the possibility of additional years based on performance triggers, such as reaching a specified number of matches.

In August, Isco faced a significant setback after fracturing his fibula, sidelining him for three months. Fortunately, he returned to training earlier this month. Head coach Manuel Pellegrini informed reporters that the midfield maestro “will be available for selection after the international break.” It remains to be seen whether he will regain full fitness in time for the upcoming match against Girona at home.

During the same event, Isco opened up about his concerns regarding a potential relapse, stating, “The fear doesn’t disappear due to the history behind it. In my second training session today, I took a hit that scared me, but that was all. It’s about living with that fear, minimizing its impact on me, and adapting like with everything else. Recovering from an injury and starting over is a constant learning process, and this is just another injury.”

In June, Spain’s national coach Luis de la Fuente named Isco in the squad for the Nations League finals, marking his return to the international scene after a six-year absence. With the World Cup approaching next year, this could be the 33-year-old’s final opportunity to represent La Roja at the highest level. De la Fuente has not ruled out Isco’s inclusion in future selections, stating, “We have a very good relationship with Isco. We spoke at the time and hope he recovers well. Like many others, he is among the players we consider for a call-up once he’s fit again. I wish him a speedy return to football.”