Ruibal moves forward in recovery, but his return to group is delayed

Aitor Ruibal continues to progress in his recovery, though his return to full group training still isn’t locked in. As reported by MARCA, the Betis versatile player is back on the training pitch after more than four months since he underwent surgery in Barcelona to address an issue with the meniscus in his right knee.

Recovering with caution

Both the player and the club’s medical and coaching staff want to avoid setting a timeline that could lead to setbacks. MARCA notes that while an initial idea was to target a return around August with the start of the league, the current situation means it is still not certain he will join the team during these international break weeks.

The plan, according to the same source, is to keep building fitness without rushing. The club has also reinforced its support: the Betis shared on social media the message «Cabeza alta, toro. Te estamos esperando».

Possible return timing

The most likely window, per MARCA, is the final stretch of the break or right after competition resumes. That matters because Betis will face a demanding run: four straight games at La Cartuja, two in LaLiga and two in the Champions League.

On the squad side, with Antony lacking a clear substitute, the Betis are weighing internal options like giving chances to the academy player Morante, while also competing for the right-back spot with Bellerín and Ortiz. In that context, Ruibal is expected to become a useful “joker” for Pellegrini once he’s fully back.