Manuel Pellegrini's future at Real Betis Balompié is contingent on the outcome of the upcoming Chilean Football Federation elections. The Chilean manager, under contract with the Seville club until June 2027, wants to see who takes charge of the ANFP before making a decision on his continuity. This comes as the team enjoys an exceptional moment, sitting third in La Liga with 16 points from seven games, their best start to a season in 25 years.
The international break arrives at a sweet time for the Verdiblancos, who have four wins and a draw in their last five matches. The most recent was a 1-1 draw away to Deportivo La Coruna on September 20, a result that denied them a historic record start. "I am very happy with what we have done, not only for the points but also for the play," Pellegrini explained. The coach admitted he would have taken 16 points from 21 before the campaign, though he noted drawing away is not seen as positive.
The uncertainty does not stem from poor performance, but quite the opposite. The Chilean's work is impeccable, with a cohesive dressing room and recognizable style. Few criticisms can be leveled at the collective performance of the Heliopolitans, in general, and the Chilean's man-management, in particular. However, Pellegrini keeps one eye on his homeland. His potential departure from Betis is not necessarily tied to taking the Chile national team job, but the electoral outcome is a factor he wants clarified. Qualifying for the Champions League, a real target after this start, could present a dilemma: leaving at the peak or staying to pursue greater ambition in Europe.
The squad's condition
Several players are making significant strides. Goalkeeper Álvaro Valles has been sublime, while Nelson Deossa has reintegrated strongly into the team. In attack, there are green shoots in Rodrigo Riquelme and a positive internal competition between Troy Parrott and 'Cucho' Hernández, who scored at Riazor. Others like Antony, Ez Abde, Isco, and Pablo Fornals are still awaiting a return to their best form. In defense, Natan de Souza is a rock and Marc Roca provides solidity in midfield.
With the league paused, the focus returns to the Benito Villamarín and the next challenge. Betis host Osasuna on October 11, an opponent currently in 13th place. The team approaches this stretch five points behind leaders Barcelona, but with confidence sky-high. The next home fixture is a chance to maintain the pace at the top of the standings. Pellegrini's decision on his future will come later, but for now, his work has Betis dreaming big.
Read the full report at La Tercera
