Manuel Pellegrini Discusses Upcoming Match and Team Dynamics Ahead of Real Madrid Clash

Manuel Pellegrini, the head coach of Real Betis, addressed the media today at the Ciudad Deportiva Luis del Sol to discuss his team’s approach to the upcoming LaLiga EA Sports match against Real Madrid, set to take place at the Santiago Bernabéu tomorrow. The team will be without Isco, along with several internationals participating in the Africa Cup of Nations.

On the team’s current state and expectations for the match, Pellegrini stated, “The group has returned in high spirits and is highly motivated. They have pushed themselves during training this week. Despite the festive atmosphere surrounding the holidays, I believe they are focused on delivering a strong performance, similar to our last match against Getafe. We are heading into a challenging stadium against a formidable opponent, but we have confidence in our ability to execute our game plan.”

Regarding the urgency to secure a win at the Bernabéu, he remarked, “When asked about our injuries in previous matches, my answer has always been that the players available are the ones who matter. Real Madrid has a squad capable of compensating for any absences. While Mbappé is undoubtedly a key scorer for them, I could mention players like Isco, Amrabat, and Abde as well. However, I stand by the idea that those on the field are tasked with driving the match forward. Therefore, if we aim to earn points at the Bernabéu, our focus must be on our performance, regardless of their lineup.”

On the situation surrounding Lo Celso in light of Isco’s absence, Pellegrini emphasized, “Lo Celso is crucial for us, irrespective of Isco’s availability. Isco’s lengthy absence enhances the necessity for Gio to occupy that role. Pablo Fornals has also been performing well, but I see Gio improving daily as he recovers from a couple of muscular injuries. I am confident that with the busy schedule ahead, he will have the chance to showcase his significant abilities, which the team requires.”

When asked about the duration of Isco’s injury, he mentioned, “We are still assessing Isco’s condition, and there are various speculations regarding his recovery timeline. He is a vital player for us, but we must learn to win in his absence, as we have demonstrated in the past. Nonetheless, his absence is felt deeply, and the coaching staff, along with the medical team, is working diligently to facilitate his speedy return.”

Concerning Isco’s psychological state, Pellegrini noted, “Isco has been present every day, undergoing rehabilitation with our fitness team. He is a mentally mature player who has navigated similar challenges successfully before, and I am optimistic that we will soon see him back on the pitch, as he is fully committed to making a return.”

On the topic of Xabi Alonso’s role at Real Madrid, he reflected, “I had the privilege of coaching when we brought Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid. With his extensive experience as a player for both Real Madrid and Liverpool, along with the Spanish national team, he understands the demands of this position. It requires consistent performance, scoring, and entertaining play. I believe he is well-prepared to manage the ups and downs that every team faces throughout the season. The expectations will always be high, and as a coach, one must deliver consistently.”

Discussing the upcoming winter transfer market, Pellegrini stated, “There is a significant difference between signing a prominent name and acquiring a reinforcement. To bring in a reinforcement, we must invest in players who surpass the current quality of those at Betis. The squad has shown that they are in a strong position across all competitions. January can be unpredictable, but I believe the team is on the right track for gradual improvement. Our primary goal, which we continually emphasize, is to be ambitious. However, playing in Europe for five consecutive years is no simple task, and maintaining competitiveness in all three competitions is equally challenging.”

In terms of his New Year’s resolutions, he declared, “Our sporting objective is to defeat Real Madrid, as the next match is crucial. We also aspire to reach the highest possible position in all three competitions, which we frequently discuss with the players. We have experienced that in just four matches, one can find themselves in a Copa del Rey final, leading to a Supercup opportunity. We remain in European competition, which involves home and away matches, and we should always aim for more. For me, personally, it is vital to reflect on past achievements, but even more important to challenge oneself to surpass them.”

On the subject of Getafe’s interest in Chimy, Pellegrini expressed, “Chimy is in good form, training intensely and getting some minutes on the field. He remains an important player for us, and I still consider him part of the squad, as he is included in the list of selected players with the opportunity to play again.”

Regarding potential reinforcements, he noted, “It will largely depend on whether we need to sell a player, as the president mentioned. If a player is sold, we must analyze where we would weaken and identify the most crucial area for reinforcement. Thus far, our squad has performed admirably, and if we need to enhance it, it should be akin to last year’s acquisitions like Antony or Cucho—significant players rather than just a name that might enhance a player likely to be sold. We cannot afford to speculate or have specific positional interests.”

Addressing Antony’s physical condition, Pellegrini confirmed, “Antony is not facing significant issues. He had a minor discomfort, and the medical staff recommended a day of rest during the week; however, he has trained daily without any problems and is included in the list of selected players.”

Finally, discussing plans for Pablo García, he stated, “Pablo García is a player who continues to develop. He has generated a lot of excitement, showcasing substantial potential and power, but he also has areas to improve. As he gains more minutes and trains with experienced players, he will continue to grow, and I believe he has a bright future here at the club, as well as possibly beyond.”