Isco Alarcón has underlined the indispensable role of Manuel Pellegrini at Real Betis Balompié and backed Dani Ceballos to rediscover his best form in an interview during the international break. The midfielder, in the final stages of recovery from a long-term injury, linked the club's current success to the Chilean manager's work over his six-year tenure. Betis sit third in LaLiga with 16 points from seven games and return to action on a five-match unbeaten run.
The case for Pellegrini
Isco was unequivocal in his praise for Pellegrini. "No se entiende un Betis ahora mismo sin Pellegrini," said the player, who previously worked with the 'Engineer' at Málaga. He highlighted the manager's continuity, with six years in charge and European qualification every season, as the foundation for the club's growth. The team has taken 16 points from a possible 21 domestically and started their Champions League campaign with an away win at Lille, objectives Isco frames within Pellegrini's project.
Belief in Ceballos
The playmaker also addressed the situation of Dani Ceballos, who is using this break to improve his fitness after missing pre-season. Isco firmly believes Betis is the perfect place for Ceballos to enjoy football again and return to his peak. "I am confident he will be important for us," he noted, adding that the player needs the club as much as the club could use a talent like his.
Season ambitions
Regarding the team's aims, Isco made clear their ambition in the Champions League is total. "We are going to compete in it to the maximum, we don't want to go for a stroll in this competition," he declared. The goal is to progress from the group stage and go as far as possible, while in LaLiga the target is a top-four finish. This attitude is reflected in recent results, including a win over Real Madrid and a draw at Deportivo La Coruna last time out, keeping the team in the Champions League places. The next fixture is against Osasuna at the Benito Villamarín, a key match to keep adding points in the standings.
Isco's personal path
On a personal level, Isco acknowledges his priority is to perform at his best for Betis again after a lengthy injury. He learned to value daily training and small details during his absence. While he admits a return to the Spanish national team is difficult due to age and competition, he hasn't ruled it out if his performances in Seville warrant it. His return to the pitch will coincide with a decisive phase of the season where Betis aims to consolidate its strong start. The team faces Osasuna in high spirits after a run of four wins and a draw in their last five outings.
Read the full report at Marca - Primera
