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Chimy Ávila fires back at Betis: “Football is legalized human trafficking”
Ezequiel 'Chimy' Ávila criticizes Real Betis Balompié after his exit. The Argentine striker compares football to legalized human trafficking.
Real Betis Balompié faces criticism from Chimy Ávila after early exit Ezequiel 'Chimy' Ávila, former Real Betis Balompié striker, launched harsh criticism at the club after his early departure. The Argentine, 32, questioned the football system and compared the industry to legalized human trafficking. Betis ended his contract by paying a €50,000 indemnity. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 5th in La Liga, 46 pts, 11W-13D-7L from 31 games, recent form DDLDL. ## What happened with Chimy Ávila? Betis activated a clause in Ávila’s contract to terminate it early. Despite the legality of the decision, the player felt wronged. “Football is legalized human trafficking. Do you make money? Yes, the player makes money. Until you score goals or are useful. Then you become an old machine”, he said in a podcast. ## Why does it matter for Betis? Ávila left the club after two and a half years with 68 appearances, eight goals, and five assists. His secondary role under Manuel Pellegrini and his abrupt exit sparked controversy. The team seeks to strengthen its attack for the upcoming season. ## What’s next for Betis? With Ávila gone, Betis is evaluating options to bolster its forward line. Currently sidelined: Diego Conde. The club aims to maintain its competitiveness in La Liga after finishing the 2025 season in fifth place.