Pellegrini Urges Patience with Isco: ‘He’s Not in Condition’
Real Betis head coach Manuel Pellegrini has called for caution regarding the return of midfielder Isco Alarcón, stating the player is not yet in optimal condition following his recovery from injury. The Chilean manager emphasized the need for patience as Isco continues his rehabilitation after overcoming two lengthy layoffs.
Isco made his return to action in Betis’ recent match against Girona, where he played the final 15 minutes. Four days later, he featured for a couple of minutes more in the team’s La Liga draw with Real Madrid, a game in which Betis secured a late 1-1 equalizer through Héctor Bellerín to maintain their push for Champions League qualification.
The Andalusian side has shown signs of revival under Pellegrini, collecting four points from their last six matches after a disappointing exit from European competition at the hands of Sporting Braga. This resurgence has renewed optimism for the final stretch of the season, though the manager remains measured in his approach to reintegrating key players.
“We have to be careful with Isco,” Pellegrini said following the Madrid derby. “He’s not in condition yet to play more minutes. We need to be patient with a player who has come back from two long injuries.”
The former Spain international has struggled with fitness issues throughout his career, and his latest absence added to concerns about his durability. Pellegrini’s comments reflect a broader strategy of managing player workloads carefully as Betis navigates a congested fixture list in pursuit of European football.
Despite limited minutes so far, Isco’s presence on the pitch has been viewed as a positive sign for Betis’ attacking options. His technical ability and experience could prove valuable as the team aims to solidify its position in the upper half of La Liga table.
The draw against Real Madrid came after Betis trailed for much of the encounter, with Vinícius Junior opening the scoring for Los Blancos before Bellerín’s late intervention salvaged a point. The result left Betis firmly in contention for a Champions League spot, adding context to Pellegrini’s cautious optimism.
Looking ahead, Betis will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures, with Isco’s gradual return expected to continue under close monitoring from the coaching staff. Pellegrini’s insistence on patience underscores the club’s long-term approach to player management rather than seeking immediate impact.
For continued updates on Isco’s progress and Betis’ push for European qualification, fans are encouraged to follow official club channels and trusted sports news outlets.
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