Real Betis Balompié counselor Joaquín Sánchez is convinced the club's current squad is stronger than last season's. The legendary former player made these statements on El Partidazo de COPE on the eve of the team's return to the Champions League.
Betis, sitting fourth in La Liga with nine points from three wins and one loss, begins its first Champions League campaign in 21 years this Tuesday. They face Lille at the Stade Pierre Mauroy. This return follows a massive morale-boosting win in domestic league play against Real Madrid and comes with a squad that has been strengthened in key areas according to their counselor.
Where is the squad improvement evident?
Joaquín Sánchez was clear in his assessment of the team's evolution. "Desde nuestro punto de vista, sí" (From our point of view, yes), he stated when asked if the squad is better now. He explained that the sporting direction has worked to strengthen specific areas of the team, resulting in a more competitive group with greater depth. This improvement is reflected in the early league form, where Betis has strung together three consecutive wins after an opening defeat, scoring and conceding five goals.
The counselor also addressed the departure of youth product Pablo García, a sensitive topic for fans. He clarified that the club did not push or fire the player, but that it was a mutual decision. "A nadie le gusta ver a un canterano esas imágenes, yo he sido canterano y también lloré" (No one likes to see a youth player in those images, I was a youth player and I also cried), Joaquín commented, showing empathy but also the reality of sporting decisions. Maintaining dressing room unity is a priority, and Joaquín assures he maintains close contact with the players to ensure it.
What does the win over Real Madrid mean?
The victory on the last matchday against the reigning champion is not only another result. Joaquín Sánchez highlighted it as a fundamental boost ahead of the demanding European commitment. It injects confidence and proves the team can compete at the highest level. This win leaves Betis just three points behind leaders Barcelona in a season where every point is precious.
The match also featured a defensive controversy that Joaquín addressed. Regarding Marc Bartra's action in a penalty incident involving Álvaro Valles and Kylian Mbappé, the counselor defended the legality of the center-back's intervention, thus backing his players in a tense moment.
How is Betis approaching its European return?
Tuesday marks a milestone: the end of a 21-year wait since Betis's last Champions League participation in the 2005-2006 season. The atmosphere is one of great expectation, though the team must manage some significant absences. Currently injured are Iker Losada, Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, Aitor Ruibal, and Diego Llorente, absences the manager must cover with the reinforcements Joaquín mentioned.
The excitement for the Champions League is immense, but the schedule doesn't stop. After the clash in France, Betis travels to La Cerámica to face Villarreal, who are currently in the relegation battle, on September 14th. You can check the full schedule on our fixtures page. The Verdiblancos have decisive weeks ahead to cement their good form both in the league standings and in their European dream.
