Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini has maintained his confidence in Troy Parrott, noting that the forward’s recent goal drought is a common occurrence for strikers and does not diminish his overall ability. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s fixture against Elche at the Martínez Valero, the Chilean coach urged patience regarding the forward’s development.
“He was not the best because he was scoring so many goals, nor is he the worst now,” Pellegrini told reporters on Saturday. “I see him training very well. It happens to all goalscorers; they go through moments where their goal tally drops. It is fundamental, and it happens to everyone.”
Personnel Updates Before Elche Clash
Pellegrini confirmed that Junior has returned to normal training and has received medical clearance, making him a likely inclusion in the squad for the trip to Elche. However, the situation remains more cautious for Cucho, who continues his recovery from injury. According to the manager, the coaching staff is monitoring his progress, though he has not yet resumed running on the field.
Reflecting on the challenge of playing away from home, Pellegrini noted that statistics confirm the difficulty of securing points on the road. He acknowledged that Elche has improved significantly since their initial struggles adapting to a new manager, describing them as a difficult opponent that prioritizes possession of the ball.
International Call-Ups for Valles, Roca, and Deossa
The manager expressed pride regarding several members of his squad receiving international recognition. Álvaro Valles and Marc Roca have been called up to the Spanish national team, a milestone Pellegrini highlighted as a significant achievement for both players.
“I am very happy for both of them; they are going through a very good moment,” Pellegrini said. “In the dressing room, they are very happy. It is a source of pride to be called up to the national team, and even more so when it is the first time. If the national coach chose them, it is because of the form they are currently in.”
Pellegrini also addressed the inclusion of Nelson Deossa in the Colombia squad. He noted that while Deossa is still adjusting to the demands of Spanish football, his performance levels are trending upward. The coach also extended his congratulations to Fidalgo, who earned a call-up for Mexico despite facing stiff competition for playing time within the current Real Betis rotation.
Confidence in Parrott’s Development
Addressing the specific pressure on Parrott, who has served as the primary attacking reference following the injury to Cucho, Pellegrini maintained his stance that the player’s international break comes at a helpful time. The manager confirmed that the club retains full confidence in the forward to regain his scoring form.
Real Betis travels to face Elche this Sunday.
Related reading
