Abde returns as Pellegrini’s Betis call-up vs Villarreal

Ez Abde is the standout inclusion in Manuel Pellegrini’s squad announced this Sunday for tomorrow’s La Liga clash at La Cerámica against Villarreal, as reported by MARCA. The winger returns after being left out of the recent matches vs Real Madrid and Lille.

Back after being sidelined

According to the article, his absence was linked to different circumstances. Against Mourinho’s side, he missed the game after skipping some training with a flu-related illness. In addition, last Monday he also did not travel to France for the Champions League opener, since the club’s technical and medical staff felt he needed a few extra days to be ready after a serious knee injury this summer, which kept him out of the World Cup with Morocco.

Now the Betis have a demanding week with likely rotations: three games in seven days. After tomorrow’s match vs the “submarine”, they face Getafe on Thursday at home, and then play on Sunday in Riazor against Deportivo de La Coruña.

Injuries shape the squad

MARCA adds that while most of the squad is available, Aitor Ruibal is ruled out with an injury and Diego Llorente is also out after fracturing the bones of his nose against Real Madrid; he is training wearing a protective mask. Finally, Morante, from the academy, does not travel and will play for the reserves.

The list comprises three goalkeepers (Álvaro Valles, Diego Conde and Manu González), defenders including Bellerín, Bartra and Fran García, plus a midfield/attack group featuring Deossa, Fornals, Lo Celso, Isco, Fidalgo, Iker Losada, Antony, Riquelme—and Abde to round it off.