BILBAO, Spain – Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini has named a 24-man squad for Sunday’s LaLiga EA Sports match against Athletic Club at San Mamés, including midfielder Sofyan Amrabat. The match, set to kick off at 18:30 local time (17:30 UTC), marks the 29th matchday of the Spanish top flight.
Pellegrini confirmed in a pre-match press conference that Amrabat, who has been working on his recovery in the gym, is available for selection. What we have is a boost for Los Verdiblancos as they prepare to face a tough opponent in Bilbao. The inclusion of Amrabat adds depth to Betis’ midfield options, providing Pellegrini with tactical flexibility.
However, the squad will be without several key players. Injured players Guido Rodríguez and Isco are not included in the traveling party, nor is youth player Pablo García. Rodríguez participated partially in Saturday’s training session, but is expected to return after the international break. Isco continues his individual recovery program. García featured for Betis’ reserve team on Friday night, scoring in their victory over Hércules.
The full 24-man squad consists of goalkeepers Adrián, Álvaro Valles, and Pau López; defenders Bellerín, Ortiz, Bartra, Natan, Valentín, and Llorente; midfielders Ricardo, Junior, Aitor, Altimira, Amrabat, Marc Roca, Deossa, and Fidalgo; and forwards Fornals, Antony, Abde, Chimy Ávila, Riquelme, Bakambu, and Cucho Hernández. Pellegrini will trim one player from the list before kickoff.
Real Betis currently sits in a competitive position in LaLiga, vying for European qualification. Athletic Club, meanwhile, are also pushing for a top-six finish, making this match a crucial encounter for both sides. San Mamés is known for its passionate atmosphere, and Betis will need to overcome a hostile environment to secure a positive result.
Manuel Pellegrini, who recently signed a contract extension with Real Betis through 2026, has the full backing of club president Ángel Haro despite speculation linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia. Haro has publicly reaffirmed his commitment to the Chilean tactician, highlighting his importance to the club’s project.
Pellegrini’s managerial career has spanned several continents, including successful stints in Spain, England, Argentina, Chile, China, and Ecuador. He has won national league titles in four different countries, demonstrating his tactical acumen and ability to adapt to various footballing cultures. His time at Villarreal, where he guided the club to a Champions League semi-final, is particularly remembered. He also led Manchester City to a Premier League title in 2014.
The match against Athletic Club presents a significant challenge for Real Betis. Athletic are known for their high-intensity pressing and quick transitions, as highlighted in recent analysis of their 1-2 victory over Real Betis. Pellegrini will need to devise a strategy to counter Athletic’s strengths and exploit any weaknesses in their defense.
Adding to Betis’ challenges, Antony is reportedly still developing in several aspects of his game and has been struggling with pubalgia, according to Goal.com. This injury concern could limit his involvement in the match.
Following the match against Athletic Club, Real Betis will have a break for the international fixtures before returning to action against [Next Opponent – Not Confirmed]. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and developments by following the club’s official website and social media channels.
The game at San Mamés promises to be a captivating encounter between two teams with ambitions of securing European football. Pellegrini’s squad selection and tactical approach will be crucial in determining the outcome of this important LaLiga clash.
