Álvaro Fidalgo Set to Join Betis as First Winter Signing

If all goes as planned, Álvaro Fidalgo will become the newest player for Real Betis on Monday. The 28-year-old midfielder from Asturias is set to sign a long-term contract, reportedly lasting four and a half seasons, until June 30, 2030. This transfer will mark him as the first signing for coach Manuel Pellegrini during the current winter transfer window. However, Fidalgo’s travel to Seville will be delayed until Monday due to bureaucratic reasons.

As the days pass, it coincides with the five-year anniversary of his arrival in Mexico, initially on loan from Castellón, before becoming a permanent player for Club América a few months later. By late 2024, he will have acquired Mexican citizenship. Nevertheless, to comply with regulations and be eligible for selection by Javier Aguirre for the national team, particularly with the World Cup in mind, he needed to fulfill a five-year residency requirement within the country.

This legal condition was satisfied at the beginning of February, allowing Fidalgo, affectionately nicknamed “El Maguito” by Club América fans, to head to Spain after completing the necessary procedures that could pave the way for his national team selection. His arrival will provide Pellegrini with additional options in the creative midfield and he is known for his versatility, capable of playing in a double pivot or as an attacking midfielder, often drifting to the left side of the attack.

Before departing for Spain, Fidalgo took the time to bid farewell to his club and fans from the past five years. “The decision was made last summer; I wanted to return to Europe. I was certain after losing the cup final. Last summer, things were unclear. They wanted me to renew here, but it was my decision. Time will tell if I made the right choice, but I have always tried to act according to my feelings in each moment,” he stated during a press conference.

“The decision is mine; they understood and supported me. They knew I wanted to take the step towards Europe; it was something I needed to experience. I want to express my gratitude; I have aimed to handle everything in the best way possible. This is a very personal decision,” he added. Regarding his new destination, Betis, he remarked: “I know it’s a significant club with an important project.” Pellegrini is eagerly awaiting his arrival.