Davide Ancelotti, son of legendary manager Carlo Ancelotti, has paid tribute to Manuel Pellegrini, head coach of Real Betis Balompié, hours before the Spanish club's Champions League debut. The Lille assistant, whose team faces Betis on Tuesday, stated that the Chilean manager "does not receive the recognition he deserves."
Betis returns to the UEFA Champions League for the first time in 21 years, a milestone reached with the team in a strong domestic position. The Seville-based club currently sits fourth in La Liga with 9 points from three wins and one loss in the first four matches. Their next league fixture is an away trip to Villarreal on September 14, a game featured on the club's fixtures page.
What did Davide Ancelotti say about Pellegrini?
Davide Ancelotti's comments came ahead of the Lille vs Real Betis clash, scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2024, at 16:00. The Italian coach, who works alongside his father on the French side's bench, was emphatic in his praise. "He is someone who does not receive the recognition he deserves, given that he has an incredible footballing trajectory." he said.
Ancelotti also reflected on managerial longevity, comparing Pellegrini to his own father. "I don't know if I will reach his age sitting on a bench. Right now, it seems impossible to me." he added. For the assistant, Pellegrini took a major step by carving out his own career path, something he views positively.
How is Betis shaping up for their Champions League return?
Real Betis's path to the Champions League group stage has been defined by solid work under Pellegrini's guidance. The team secured a significant victory over Real Madrid in La Liga just before their European debut, boosting confidence in the project. José Miguel López, the club's vice president, stated the team is "prepared to do a good job" and the objective is to "go as high as possible."
López also highlighted the manager's satisfaction with the squad all summer, particularly with the midfield's performance. Players like Amrabat, Facundo Bernal, Valtimira, and Dani Ceballos have covered that area well, according to the director. The team faces this challenge with an even goal difference in the league, having scored 5 and conceded 5, sitting three points behind leaders Barcelona in the standings.
What is the current context for the Seville side?
The excitement for the Champions League does not overshadow the immediate squad challenges. Betis approaches the Lille match with several notable physical setbacks. Players Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, Aitor Ruibal, and Diego Llorente are currently on the injuries list, forcing Pellegrini to find alternatives for his lineup.
Despite these absences, the dressing room atmosphere is highly motivated. Vice President López stressed that the goal is to earn points to aim for the next round, aware that every single one counts. The match at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy will be broadcast on ESPN 4 and Disney+ Premium, allowing the verdiblanco faithful to follow the historic return from anywhere.
What does this recognition mean for the project?
Praise from a figure like Davide Ancelotti, linked to one of history's most successful managers, reinforces the prestige of Manuel Pellegrini's work at the Benito Villamarín. Ancelotti Jr. Called his father "the best coach in history" and saw Pellegrini's independent career as a model to follow. He considered the Chilean to be at the right age to have branched out and will likely become a great manager with a similar footballing idea.
For Real Betis, this moment is the culmination of several years of steady growth. The team is not only competing in Europe but doing so from a position of strength in the domestic league, demonstrating solidity. The clash against Villarreal next weekend will be the next test after the European adventure, a key match to maintain pace near the top of the table.
