Diego Llorente (Betis) returns after nose fracture and muscle issues

Diego Llorente, the Real Betis centre-back, says he is ready to return after weeks affected by a nose fracture and subsequent muscle discomfort. In an interview with RTV Betis, he explained that he used the international break to get his rhythm back and be available for the coach: “I’ve taken advantage of this break to get my rhythm back and be available for the manager.”

He adds that the period after the match against Real Madrid—when he suffered the fracture to the bones in his nose after clashing with teammate Marc Roca—was strange, but he believes he has moved past the frustration and can come back “with more strength” to reach his previous level.

Nine games in 28 days

His comeback arrives with an intense schedule: nine matches in 28 days across LaLiga, the Champions League and the Copa del Rey. Llorente believes the mental challenge matters too, and points out that Pellegrini now has “almost the whole squad” available.

On the Champions League, he says the Betis must focus on competing every game and getting closer to victory, insisting that “we have options against any opponent”. Still, he calls for caution, stressing a “match by match” approach and warning that “squads don’t win games”.