Manuel Pellegrini: Betis will have chances vs Barcelona

Manuel Pellegrini, Real Betis coach, spoke ahead of tomorrow’s match against Barcelona at La Cartuja (18:30). He comes buoyed by the Betis Champions League win last Wednesday over Porto, a result that extended the buzz after nearly 21 years without European competition at the Cartuja home.

“I see the team in a very good mental state,” Pellegrini said, adding that “we are going to have chances” and that “I hope we can turn them into goals.” He also warned about Barcelona’s cutting edge: “We have to be very attentive, focused and intense,” because “mistakes are paid for with goals.”

The approach vs Barça

Pellegrini insisted Betis must defend without errors and keep their rhythm despite a side that presses hard and makes ball control difficult. He also pointed to form: Barça are on six straight wins, while Betis have five victories and a draw. “We’re going to look for the three points,” he said, and if they don’t come, it will be because “they outperformed us.”

Minutes for Isco and Ceballos

On squad rotation, the coach said Isco’s minutes have been increased gradually (45, 50, 60) depending on how he feels. Regarding Dani Ceballos, Pellegrini said he improved as expected after a three-week break to get match-ready, and that he will be used more as the team needs him. He also praised Lamine Yamal’s impact, saying there are “different ways to use him” thanks to what he creates in each match, including goals and assists.