Real Betis Balompié puts the future of several players on the line in the league finale

Real Betis Balompié

Real Betis Balompié has already done its homework. Manuel Pellegrini’s team secured their spot in the UEFA Champions League after beating Elche at La Cartuja and now faces the last two matchdays with much less pressure… although there are still many things to resolve within the verdiblanco dressing room.

The collective goal has been achieved, but on an individual level there are several players who still have a lot at stake. Some are ending their contracts, others have options to leave in the summer, and several want to take advantage of this final showcase to increase their value and leave good impressions before making decisions about their future.

Additionally, Pellegrini arrives at the next match with several important absences. Marc Bartra, Ángel Ortiz, and Aitor Ruibal will not be available due to physical problems. Diego Llorente and Cucho Hernández also cannot play suspended after a yellow card accumulation. Even so, the Chilean coach has many alternatives and the presence of some youth player is not ruled out, although the reserve team is fighting to stay up this weekend against Tarazona.

One of the big novelties could be in goal. Everything points to Pau López getting minutes again after several weeks without playing. Since that European elimination against Braga, he has barely had any game time, and this final stretch could serve him to regain his confidence between the posts.

In defense, injuries practically clear up any doubts. Héctor Bellerín seems certain at right back, while Natan and Valentín Gómez are expected to anchor the center of the defense. On the left, Ricardo Rodríguez would return to his usual position.

The midfield also brings interesting stories. Sergi Altimira, who has already received the club’s permission to look for a destination for the next season, needs minutes and exposure. Alongside him could appear Sofyan Amrabat, although Pellegrini might manage efforts and give Marc Roca playing time to avoid unnecessary risks.

Further up, everything suggests that Giovani Lo Celso will have a role to give Pablo Fornals some rest. On the wings will be important focuses of the verdiblanco market: Antony wants to continue proving himself on a big stage, while Betis remains very attentive to the growth of Abde Ezzalzouli, whose value keeps rising.

And upfront, as the offensive reference, Cédric Bakambu is expected to start. The striker could be living his last matches as a verdiblanco, so this season finale also carries a farewell vibe for several names within the heliopolitan locker room.