Pellegrini on Isco, Ceballos, Antony and the Ortiz-Bellerin race

Real Betis Balompié

Isco and Ceballos, with more and more minutes

Manuel Pellegrini highlighted the progress of Isco, whose minutes load has been increasing gradually after his recovery.

«He has been taking him along with good judgment, with 45 minutes, with 50 minutes, with 60 minutes», he explained, making it clear that they will keep managing his efforts.

Regarding Dani Ceballos, he said the break helped him improve his physical condition and that he will gain more prominence as the team needs him.

Ruibal is close and Ortiz competes with Bellerin

Aitor Ruibal is practically recovered from his knee injury, although Pellegrini still has not confirmed his return to the squad.

At right back, he said that both Ángel Ortiz and Héctor Bellerín have the qualities to start, without forgetting that Ruibal can also play there.

«With the number of matches we are playing, everyone will get the chance», he said.

So, rotations at right back will continue to be the norm.

Antony keeps the coach's confidence

Pellegrini defended the performance of Antony, despite admitting that he needs to improve his precision in the final stretch.

«He has the trust of the coaching staff, of his teammates, to keep looking for things», he said.

The coach pointed to his defensive work, his ability to create danger and his commitment, although he believes that he needs more calm in the final pass and in finishing.

Rotations and possible changes against Barcelona

The coach explained that he continues to assess each player's physical condition, performance and characteristics in order to decide the lineups.

With several demanding matches in just a few days, Pellegrini will keep making rotations, although he avoided giving clues about the XI he will use against Barcelona.

The coach stressed that his team will maintain an attacking approach and go for victory from the first minute, despite the difficulty of the opponent.